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DOCTOR JACK’S WIFE. 


By ST. GEORGE RATHBORNE. 



EERTHA I. CLAY’S COPYRIGHT NOVELS. 

PUBLISHED BY STREET & SMITH. 

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Doctor Jack’s Wife 


A NOVEL. 


• 

ST. G-EORGE RATHBOBNE, 

Author of “DOCTOR JACK,” Etc. 



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Doctor Jack. By St. George Rathborne. 

Kathleen Douglas. By Julia Truitt Bishop. 

Jose. By Otto Ruppius. 

His Word of Honor. By E. Werner. 

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A Woman’s Temptation. By Bertha M. Olay. 

Stella Rosevelt. By Mrs. Georgie Sheldon. 

The Partners. By Alphonse Daudet. 

Sardou’s Cleopatra. By Yictorien Sardou. 

The Chouans. By Honore de Balzac. 

Sealed Lips. By Leon de Tinseau. 

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The Price he Paid. By E. Werner. 

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DOCTOR JACK’S WIFE 


CHAPTER I. 

THE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE. 

Night has just settled over the city and harbor of 
Valparaiso, the greatest seaport of the Chilian coast 
— an October night — when a boat from the Chilian 
war vessel draws up alongside the landing known 
as the Mole. 

One man only springs out, and his actions bespeak 
the soldier rather than the sailor. Chili, the stanch- 
est republic of South America, has recently been 
racked in the throes of civil war, and the beaten 
government leader, Balmaceda, has fled over the 
mountains. His fate is still uncertain, and a close 
watch is kepi up in all seaport towns for the fugi- 
tive president, who is believed to carry with him a 
wonderful treasure in precious gems. 

Buenos noche^ Senor Colonel,” sings out the 
Chilian officer in the stern-sheets of the boat. 

. The man on shore responds — his voice and intona- 
tion betray his nationality— Colonel Leon Garcia 


8 THE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE. 

has played a part in the late war, and by rare good 
luck chances to be on the winning side when it ter- 
minates. 

Swinging on his heel, he passes into the city, aim- 
ing directly for a certain quarter, as though he has 
an engagement. Valparaiso at this hour is a noisy 
place, for a number of war vessels, besides trading 
steamers and ships are in the harbor, and hundreds 
of sailors on shore-leave make things lively. Among 
others may be seen a number of Yankee tars from 
the cruiser Baltimore, now in port. 

Colonel Garcia frowns whenever he sights one of 
Uncle Sam’s blue-jackets, for, like the majority of 
his countrymen, he has conceived an intense hatred 
for all Yankees, and puffed up with the recent vic- 
tories, believes valiant Chili with her powerful men- 
of-war can even lay the United States under tribute. 

At the corner of the lighted Plaza Heelright he 
comes to a stop — a figure advances out of the 
shadow to greet him, a figure of magnificent build, 
colossal in size, and possessing the unmistakable 
voice of a Briton. There are many Englishmen in 
Chili, where the money from the tight little island 
across the sea controls most of the industries — this 
is the main cause for Chilian hostility to Americans 
— British interests are endangered by Yankee push, 
and jealousy stirs up bad blood. 

“Colonel, you are a little late,” remarks the 
Briton, somewhat peevishly. 

“ Bah ! what does it matter — he will not be back 
for hours. We have cooked his goose, and the game 
is in our hands, milord,” returns the soldier, as if 
proud of his own work — this Chilian colonel is a 
fire-eater, a dare-devil, in his own estimation, 
though if his soldiers were closely interrogated they 


TEE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE. 


would tell how he sheltered himself behind a tree in 
one engagement, and at the closing battle of Pla- 
cilla a wrecked stone house gave him security, from 
which he waved his sword frantically, urging his 
men to deeds of valor. 

“ Pardon me if I appear less sanguine than your- 
self — I’ve had some dealings with this Yankee doc- 
tor — he is in league with the nitrate king, Colonel 
North, has outwitted the combine that plotted his 
ruin, and bids fair to carry out the project that 
brought him to Chili at this time. By Jove ! I shall 
not be satisfied until I know the whole business has 
been accomplished.” 

“You surprise me. Lord Rackett; I thought you 
were invincible; a born athlete; a British prize 
boxer who had never met his match.” 

“Wait until you meet Doctor Jack, my dear 
colonel. I have seen some of his work, and I respect 
as much as I hate the Yankee. Some day we will 
settle our question at close quarters, but for the 
present I am content to work in the dark against 
him.” 

“Pardon again — 3mu adore — his wife!” 

“My dear colonel, I worshiped her before she ever 
knew such a man existed as Jack Evans. Then I 
lost her — was taken with the fever at Paris — took 
me six months to recuperate.” 

“ Vaya, hombre, and she ” 

“By Jove! was Doctor Jack’s wife when I saw 
her again. I was furious, meant to challenge him — 
thought better of it and laid low to await the turn 
of the tide that comes to every man who has 
patience. It has taken several years, but fortune 
has finally given me the chance I asked. He comes 
to Chili on a secret mission — to save the fortune he 


10 


THE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARK 


has invested here— Avis accompanies him against 
his wishes, for she is brave, devoted. I am already 
here ; Englishmen are in favor with the Chilians, 
while Americans are hated. I am in luck. I lay my 
plans, and here in old Valparaiso Doctor Jack will 
meet his Waterloo.” 

Carrambal what a mind for scheming. I am 
proud to serve you, to be your ally. But what do I 
inhale — that abominable smoke — see, it proceeds 
from that figure hugging yonder post within ear- 
shot. We may be overheard.” 

“Bah! it is the odor of a wretched cigarette — 
some Chilian lad lounging in the plaza ; we talk in 
English; it is Greek to him, never fear. Are you 
ready for our little programme?” 

“You mean our argument under the lady’s win- 
dow at the fonda — yes, I have it in my mind, and 
will carry my part. Experience has taught me that 
all women are jealous, and I must believe Doctor 
Jack’s wife is no exception to the general rule.” 

“Ah,” says the Briton, with a chuckle, “she has 
good reason for jealousy; she loves this man; I 
will cause her first to hate him.” 

“And then?” 

“By Jove! I shall marry his widow in the end. 
Trust me, my boy, for that.” 

“Do we go now?” 

“ At once, colonel. Remember, I shall appear very 
angry ; an English gentleman is easily aroused by 
such miserable treachery on the part of a contempti- 
ble husband.” 

“Of course — it is natural. You say she sits much 
at her open window?” 

“Yes, for her husband has had to be away most 
of the time, and owing to the excited state of the 


THE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE, 


11 


populace since the capture of the city he does not 
wish her abroad unattended.” 

“Take my arm, milord. Now we shall proceed to 
the fonda.” 

As the tAvo saunter across the plaza, after lighting 
cigars, the small figure that has been hugging the 
post near by, arises, and instead of a Chilian youth 
proves to be a little man sporting a pair of very 
agonizing though diminutive Dundreary whiskers, 
a checkered suit, and a tremendous cane, with an 
ape’s head for a handle, which the owner sucks 
whenever he has occasion for deep thought. 

“Bless my soul, but this is very odd. I cawn’t 
quite understand it, you know. Something told me 
Lord Rackett was up to mischief, so I kept out of 
his sight and followed him here. One thing I’ve 
learned that pleases me— they’re in V^alparaiso— I’ll 
soon be able to give Jack the message I’ve carried 
over the sea. By Jove! I must patter after this pair 
of ducks, you know, and see what they mean to do. 
Wretched cigarette— abominable odor— I’ll wipe 
out the insult in gore, pon onah, I will.” 

Thereupon the little man’s slender legs fairly fiy 
as he hastens to overtake those whose conversation 
a peculiar freak of fortune has allowed him to hear. 

The hotel looms up— quite a fair-looking building 
for Valparaiso. Already the pair ahead seem to 
have opened up a warm discussion— men generally 
raise their voices when they become heated in argu- 
ment— and as seems quite natural, they come to a 
pause close to the walls of the fonda, as a hotel is 
known in all Spanish countries. 

Not more than ten feet above the sidewalk there 
is an open window; through this a soft light 
escapes as though a lamp were turned low; and as 


12 TEE WOMAN WHO WOULD DAEE. 

the voices of the men sound upon the night air, the 
flutter of a white shawl or some similar feminine 
garment might be noticed in this quarter. 

“I say it is a burning shame, colonel; I’m a single 
man myself, but I have no patience with a scoun- 
drel who would deceive his wife, leave her at some 
hotel, and go off to flirt with a pretty girl who has 
caught his eye.” 

“Bah! they’re pretty much alike, milord, these 
benedicts ; I’ve no doubt that Senor Evans’ wife 
believes him to he perfection. Men are deceivers 
ever, you know,” laughs the Chilian. 

“Jove! I’ve a notion to find out where his wife is 
and tell her of his treachery ; yes, prove it, if need 
be, by taking her to see him in the company of the 
lovely Senorita Marilla de los Vegos.” 

“ Cospita! man, she would not go.” 

“ Then I shall horsewhip him on the plaza. I tell 
you I once knew this lady and worshiped her. 
Colonel Garcia, and my honest British blood boils 
at her husband’s cowardly act.” 

“Go slow, my impetuous British lion. I have 
heard of this Yankee, and Doctor Jack has the repu- 
tation of one who fears neither man nor devil. You 
are brave, but even that might not save you in an 
encounter.” 

“An English gentleman never lets such a thought 
confound him. Win or lose, it would make no differ- 
ence ; in the service of a lady whom he respects he 
would risk his life. You are sure you saw him with 
the beautiful and wealthy senorita who came so near 
trapping Balmaceda before his secret flight?” 

“I will stake my life on it — he kissed her hand 
and looked the lover. I can hardly blame the Yan- 
kee, por Dios, for half the men in all Valparaiso 


TEE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE, 


13 


would wade through fire and fiood at the nod of her 
pretty head.” 

‘‘Ah! I see, colonel, you, too, are in love.” 

^^Homhre, I admit the soft impeachment. When I 
saw this accursed Yankee find favor in her eyes, 
and receive the looks of love that I would give my 
right hand to have bestowed upon my humble self, 
I stamped his face on my brain, and his name when 
she uttered it.” 

How fiercely the dashing Chilian says this, as 
though he means every word. 

“Tell me what she said.” 

“All I heard, and it was enough to give me a 
heart-flutter, too, was, ‘To the death. Doctor Jack — 
she shall not come between.^” 

“Jove! quite enough, I declare.” 

“What was that — 1 thought I heard a low cry.” 

“Nonsense, man, there is so much confusion 
around Valparaiso now, with sailors swarming the 
streets and soldiers from our victorious army march- 
ing in squads, that all manner of sounds may strike 
the ear. Let’s find a quiet nook in a neighboring 
calle, where we can talk this thing over and arrange 
our plan. By Jove ! it’s a blasted shame. An Eng- 
lishman cawn’t stand by and see a thing like this 
done. Doctor Jack has got to give up his new 
idol ” 

“Or I shall make his wife a widow soon,” grates 
the fire-eating colonel. 

Then, arm-in-arm, the two saunter on, as though 
their halt has been a mere accident. 

In the window above a feminine figure is crouched 
— every word has reached the ears of that faithful 
wife, but beyond the one low, involuntary cry that 
escaped her at the cruel words repeated by the 


14 


THE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE. 


heartless Chilian soldier of fortune, she has given 
no evidence that the conversation thus accidentally 
held in front of the Valparaiso fonda, and under her 
window, is of a character to sear itself with letters 
of fire upon her brain. 

One minute later the light flashes up in the apart- 
ments occupied by the rich American, Doctor Evans, 
and his charming wife. 

Sixty seconds more, and there sounds a sudden 
knock upon the hall door. 

“Enter,” calls the voice of the lady, in Spanish, 
but she does not turn her head nor desist in her 
search through the trunk for something. 

Through the door-way steps the little man we have 
seen upon the plaza; the bright light reveals the 
wonderful pattern of his garments, and his gener- 
ally dudish but ridiculous attire, even to the insig- 
nificant little Dundreary appendages on either side 
of his face, which countenance it must be confessed 
usually boasts of a dull, vacant expression, pos- 
sibly studied. 

As this specimen of the Anglomania craze, in New 
York, stands there, one hand held out toward Doc- 
tor Jack’s wife in greeting, the other feebly caress- 
ing the left tuft of yellow down upon his off cheek, 
while his cane is tucked under his arm, the woman 
at the trunk, who has tossed all manner of gar- 
ments aside in her excited search, gives utterance to 
a cry: 

“ I have found it, and now to wring a confession 
from the lips of the scoundrel.” 

She turns as she speaks. 

“By Jove! a revolver it is. Good gwacious. Avis, 
don’t you wecognize me— duse take these whiskers ! 
It’s me — your own cousin ” 


THE WOMAN WHO WOULD DARE. 


15 


“ Larry !” 

The revolver drops upon the floor, luckily without 
exploding, and in another minute the small man 
finds himself actually embraced by another fellow's 
wife. 

“Thank God you are here, just when I need you 
most, cousin. I am in a cruel position, and without 
a soul in this city to help me,” she cries, as she 
blush ingly releases her small relative and sinks into 
a chair. 

Then she rapidly repeats what has been said be- 
neath her window. 

“I know — the air is full of danger to you and 
yours in Valparaiso. I must see Jack as soon as 
possible ; I bring him a message of importance from 
Quito — hunted for you in Santiago, chased you to 
this beastly place. But you have your hat on — what 
did you intend doing — make your husband confess?” 
in a joking sort of way. 

Her blue eyes snap sparks of fire : 

“ If you had not come. Cousin Larry, in five min- 
utes some one would have been hunting for a Colo- 
nel Leon Garcia, and before the hour that miserable 
Chilian officer would be on his knees, looking into 
the muzzle of this pretty toy, and confessing the 
truth to Doctor Jack's wife.” 


16 


TA2iKEE MUSCLE IN A VALPABAISO CALLB. 


CHAPTER II. 

YANEIEE MUSCLE IN A VALPAEAISO CALLE. 

At just the time the boat from the Chilian gun- 
boat lands alongside the Mole, a man leaves the 
fonda that Valparaiso is proud of, and heads into 
the city proper. 

A visitor from one of the capitals of Europe or the 
States might turn up his nose at the idea of Val- 
paraiso being called a great city, for there are lack- 
ing many of the elements that enterprise has made 
common in the civilized world, but it should be 
taken into consideration that Chili is in reality a 
Spanish country, though the widest awake of all 
our South American neighbors, and that they do 
not take as readily to the wonderful advances of 
the age as some other nations. Besides, Chili has 
just suffered the agonies of a terrible civil war, and 
emerges with an added luster to her diadem ; all she 
wants now is a little time to recover, and then 
watch her advance with giant strides. 

Thus it may be accounted for that instead of 
flashing electric lights, such as we are accustomed 
to seeing even in most of our small towns along the 
railroads, Valparaiso, recently the seat of battle, is 
dimly lighted with flaring gas-lamps. 

Doctor Jack thinks little of this as he leaves the 
hotel and strikes for the center of the city ; he has 
delved into many a quaint city of Europe, and in his 
travels has seen so much that is odd and belongs to 
a past age that with a traveler’s experience his 


YANKEE MUSCLE IN A VALPARAISO CALLS. 17 

philosophy is to take all things as he finds them, and 
do the best possible. 

Once he turns, to wave his handkerchief to the 
figure in the window of the hotel and receive an 
answering salute. 

“God bless the dear girl,” mutters Doctor Jack; 
“it’s a beastly shame that she should be compelled 
to endure what has come upon us in this war-racked 
country, but Avis would not allow me to sail alone, 
and everything depended on my coming. Well, it 
looks as though the biggest success of my life had 
attended me, and in a couple of days more we’ll 
take the steamer, sail for California, and put in the 
winter on our lovely place near Monterey. 

“I am more than curious to know what the writer 
of this note has to say concerning the secret mis- 
sion that brought me to Chili — the vague hints 
thrown out do not satisfy me. It may be he has 
news of importance to communicate, or on the 
other hand this little business may turn out— a trap. 
Doctor Jack comes prepared with gold to buy this 
secret if it is worthy of a price, and with cold lead 
to meet treachery.” 

Thus meditating, the American traverses a nar- 
row calle where the draught of sea air causes the 
lights to flare, and fantastic shadows to creep over 
the pavements like weird phantoms. 

Valparaiso, like all seaports, alwavs has its quota 
of rough characters, and at this particular time is 
boiling over with elements succeeding the late war 
—soldier adventurers spending the spoils they have 
picked up, sailors deserting their ships, and numer- 
ous rogues from the country flocking to the scene of 
Balmaceda’s overthrow, as though expecting to find 


18 YANKEE MUSCLE IN A VALPARAISO CALLS. 

the treasure of the late government upon the 
streets. 

Doctor Jack seeks no quarrel, though ever ready 
to defend himself against all comers. He knows 
the antipathy that exists in the Chilian mind at 
present against Americans, and how quick these 
natives are to spot a Yankee on sight — hence, he 
pulls the soft hat he wears farther over his eyes as 
he pushes along the dismal looking calle. 

Doctor Jack can talk Spanish fairly well, and if 
asked a question may even reply in a tone that 
would cause no suspicion to arise concerning his 
right to the streets of Valparaiso. Better a little 
deception of this sort than a silly outbreak that 
must betray his identity and cause a small riot in 
the city. 

His residence in the country has been such as to 
make it profitable for him to imitate the natives in 
the matter of dress and habits as much as possible. 
The Chilians do not differ greatly from our own 
methods — the habiliments of a gentleman are much 
the same as we see every day, but in a few things 
they have their own oddities, and these are enough 
to mark a native in the street from a foreigner, just 
as we spot an Englishman on Broadway. 

The wisdom of Doctor Jack’s policy is presently 
made manifest. At a certain point of the calle two 
vagabonds, who wear remnants of soldiers’ uni- 
forms, though this does not prove that they have 
ever marched under the Chilian fiag, suddenly con- 
front the American pedestrian and demand his 
money. 

Their appeal is not one of charity, for the out- 
stretched hand holds something in its grasp that 
glitters like steel. 


YANKEE MUaCLE IN A VALPARAISO GALLS. 


19 


Now, Doctor Jack has never been niggardly in his 
dealings with the needy ; his hand and pocket-book 
are always open to the appeals of want, but there is 
something in his nature that invariably protests 
against having the hand of a footpad thrust into his 
purse and seize upon the contents. 

He has had the experience under the moons of 
various countries, and as a general rule kicked 
against it with all his might. Just so on the present 
occasion; although unwilling to create a disturb- 
ance or commit a breach of the peace in the streets 
of old Valparaiso, he is even more opposed to hand- 
ing over his valuables to a couple of cowardly vaga- 
bonds who thus waylay him, taking advantage of 
the fact that at this particular moment no one else 
seems to be moving along the narrow, ill-lighted 
calle. 

Hence, the fellow who addresses the lonely pil- 
grim from the fonda hardly finishes his demand for 
the coins of the realm when he is struck by a young 
cyclone, the revolver sent fiying from his hand, and 
a fist brought against his head with such impetus 
that he finds himself lying on his back ten feet 
away, feebly gazing up at the few stars that peep 
down from the narrow lane of blue sky visible be- 
tween the flat roofs above. 

Doctor Jack does not forget that the impudent 
footpad he thus chastises has a comrade, and whirl- 
ing around, he is just in time to seize this fellow’s 
upraised arm, which brandishes aloft an ugly knife. 

When those fingers of steel encircle the wrist of 
the Chilian desperado he feels as though he has 
slipped his arm by mistake into a vice, which clamps 
upon it with terrible force, causing a cry of anguish 
to burst from his lips. 


20 YANKEE MUSGLE IN A VALPARAISO CALLE. 

With a few words in Spanish to emphasize the 
force of his action, the Yankee gives a sudden fling 
of his arm — it is not unlike the snap of a drover’s 
long whip. At the same moment he releases his 
clutch, and the footpad is sent across the calle with 
a force like that attained by a stone hurled in olden 
times from that primitive war engine, the catapult. 

As he strikes the door of a house, which chances 
to be slightly ajar, he goes crashing in, and that 
lack of positive resistance saves him from a broken 
head. 

The field is clear by this time, and Doctor Jack 
walks on as composedly as though such little occur- 
rences are every-day matters with him, and count 
for but little anyway. 

‘‘Strange, how many cities I’ve been in where 
just such a thing occurred to me — Paris, London, 
Madrid, Ecme, Cairo, yes, and even in far-away 
Constantinople and Bombay. Well, when a man 
takes to roaming the streets at night he’s almost 
certain to meet with just such an adventure, be it 
in Chicago or Santiago, Bio de Janeiro or Buenos 
Ayres. That’s done, and all the injury I’ve sus- 
tained is the fractured skin upon one of my knuckles. 
Reckon the chap who was the cause of it all feels 
worse than that after the collision.” 

Saying which, he wraps his handkerchief care- 
lessly around the hand that bleeds a little, and his 
thoughts go back to stormy scenes in Madrid some 
years ago, when he first met the woman he so 
proudly calls his wife, and in striving to keep his 
first appointment passed through just such an expe- 
rience as has befallen him here in V^alparaiso. 

Then his mind leaves these old scenes, and once 
more turns to the business on hand — the strange 


YANKEE MUSCLE IN A VALPABAISO CALLE. 21 

affair that causes him to part from his wife at the 
fonda and plunge into the amazing depths of the 
seaport town. 

Fortunately Doctor Jack is at home here— he has 
threaded every one of Vaparaiso’s calles in the day- 
time, and knows Just where his course lies. 

Presently he emerges from the narrow street, to 
find himself upon one better lighted, where there 
are many pedestrians of all classes and nations. 
Here gangs of sailors reel along, shouting their 
national airs, for under the exciting circumstances 
the alquazils are prone to wink at any ordinary dis- 
turbance of the peace. Valparaiso contains so many 
rough elements, and is in such a prime condition 
for a riot that the cautious Intendente, or chief of 
police, has issued orders to his men to wink at small 
disorders. * 

Along this thoroughfare the American strides for 
some ten minutes — then he stops to look around him, 
as if a little doubtful. 

“Passed the calle, I reckon— anyhow, I don’t 
remember seeing yonder barracks the time I came 
out of that same street and turned in the quarter 
I’ve Just come from. Let me go back and see — 
here’s a street, and I honestly believe it’s the one — 
isn’t that a name rudely painted on the glass of the 
blinking street-lamp? Wait until it flares up again, 
poor thing— ah ! now we have it, Calle los Angeles. 
Bless my soul, the street of the angels— well. Judg- 
ing from the looks, I should say their visits in this 
section are few and far between.” 

Standing there a minute, he takes a survey of the 
street ; although it does not appear to be a thorough- 
fare, it is fairly lighted, and he remembers that quite 


22 


YANKEE MUSCLE IN A VALPABAISO GALLE. 


a number of what are called palaces in a South 
American city can be found in this locality. 

Little does Doctor Jack imagine what strange 
events lie before him as he stands for a minute upon 
the threshold of his adventure and gazes down the 
calle with its twinkling lights. 

Around him arise the various sounds that may be 
heard in a Spanish town of a balmy evening — much 
laughter, loud talking, songs from jolly spirits pass- 
ing, while from over the walls of a garden near by 
come the tinkling notes of a mandolin as one of 
Chili^s dark-eyed daughters thrums a national air. 

Doctor Jack hears, smiles, and turning his back 
on all this exhilaration of sounds plunges down the 
Calle los Angeles — advancing to meet the strange 
adventure that awaits him. 

Now, keeping to the left, he reaches a tree upon 
which a board has been nailed, forming a rude 
cross — it is known as such to every dweller in Val- 
paraiso, and has many a time served as a rendezvous 
for lovers and plotters. 

At the Tree of the Cross he pauses and glances 
around him. A figure which the body of the tree 
has concealed suddenly bobs into view, and a voice 
in Spanish says : 

“Good-evening, senor— I have been expecting 
you. You are prompt.” 

“Are you Jose?” 

“Si, senor, that is my name,” bowing, and Jack 
notices that he is attired as servants are in the 
families of rich Chilians. 

“You are to lead me into the presence of one who 
signs the name Don Rafael Ricardo.” 

“That is true, senor.” 

“Then lose no time— I am ready.” 


YANKEE MUSCLk: IN A VALPARAISO CALLS. 23 

‘‘Follow, senor.” 

Doctor Jack does so willingly; he is not in the 
habit of engaging in wild-goose chases, but on the 
present occasion the letter which has been handed 
to him, requesting an interview, contained so many 
points concerning his secret mission to Chili, which 
he believed were only known to himself, that, act- 
ing on the advice of his wife, it is only proper that 
he should take some risks in order to find out what 
this means. 

Jose looks behind him several times, as if to see 
whether the American follows; but he need have 
no fear on this score, since Jack has entered the 
game, determined to see it to the end. 

“We arrive!” cries the man, suddenly, as he 
opens a heavy gate, above which hangs a red lan- 
tern. 

It may he like the fly walking into the parlor of 
the cunning spider, but having made up his mind, 
the Yankee is bound to go forward, even though he 
may suspect all manner of evil hovers there in store 
for him. 

So he passes the portals. 

Like many houses owned by the higher classes in 
Santiago and Valparaiso, this building is set in the 
midst of a garden, and surrounded by high walls 
to insure privacy— indeed, these same walls might 
not be amiss in conjunction with a penitentiary or 
lunatic asylum. 

They pass along a walk bordered with flowers, the 
perfume of which at least makes itself manifest. 
Then comes the house— broad steps are ascended, a 
noble piazza crossed, and Jose throws open the door, 

“Enter!” he cries, and when Doctor Jack has 
done so he leads him to a room, which, though but 


24 YANKEE MUSCLE IN A VALPABAISO CALLE. 

dimly lighted, it can be seen is elegantly furnished. 

Here the American waits for an audience with the 
writer of the note, in the drawing-room where his 
deadly foe. Lord Rackett Plympton, is an honored 
guest — here he stands impatiently — then, desirous of 
seeing the paintings, turns on the gas, floods the 
room with light, and hearing what may be a sigh, 
turns— to gaze upon a sight that would thrill most 
men! 


^HE SWEARS TO WIN DOCTOR JACK'S WIDOW:' 25 


CHAPTER III. 

‘‘HE SWEARS TO WIN DOCTOR JACK’S WIDOW.” 

It is not into the frowing tubes of a revolver that 
Doctor Jack stares as he wheels in that Chilian 
parlor, but something just about as deadly to the 
peace of man — the fascinating eyes of a rarely 
beautiful woman. 

She is of Spanish blood — her dusky orbs and olive 
complexion betray this fact. Jack has seen many 
lovely women in his time, but surely never one like 
the person who stands there and looks into his face 
— her gaze is peculiar, too, since it seems to fasci- 
nate, to a certain extent. 

“ Pardon, but I have come here to meet the writer 
of a note,” he says. 

She gives him a captivating smile. 

“Yes, I know it, Senor Evans,” she says, softly. 

“ I would see Don Rafael, if it please you, senor- 
ita.” 

“He is in Santiago.” 

“ But — the letter ” 

“I wrote myself, senor,” again smiling. 

Doctor Jack bows, accepting the situation. 

“Then my interview must be with you.” 

“Are you sorry. Doctor Jack?” 

This man is no fool— he detects the varied emo- 
tions of her voice, and knows she has entered upon 
the game she plays with a motive. As yet he can- 
not guess it — he is far from being conceited — ignores 
the fact of his fine physique- md handsome face— 


26 SWEAHS^rO WIN DOCTOR JACE^S TT/DOTT.” 

cares only for the love and devotion of one woman 
in all this wide world, and that — his wife. 

At the same time he is a gentleman, and able to 
meet a lady with compliments if need be. 

“Certainly not, lady, but surprised,” he replies. 

“At what ?” 

“That so much of my secret business to this land, 
to Chili, should be known to one of your sex.” 

“Ah! perhaps I have an interest in you and your 
fortunes,” with a bewitching look. 

“That, too, would be singular, lady, for, outside of 
my dreams, I cannot remember ever having seen, 
pardon me, one so lovely.” 

She flushes and thrills, as though his empty com- 
pliment contains the elixir of life for her. v 

“Then you have seen me in your dreams — you 
believe in souls leaving their earthly tenement 
during sleep and holding intercourse with other 
congenial company, from whom in life they may 
ever be separated?” 

“ Ah ! that is something I have never bothered my 
head about. I simply meant that in dreams we 
often see faces, and are startled at meeting their 
facsimiles later. But, senorita, I have come here, 
braving what danger lies upon your streets after the 
recent disturbances” — with an involuntary glance 
at his hand and the bruised knuckle— “to hear 
what you have to say concerning my affairs. You 
will therefore pardon me if I ask you to proceed to 
business that I may return to the /onda.” 

At his words a change flashes over the lovely face 
of the Chilian beauty. 

“You are anxious to return to your wife?” she 
cannot help saying. 

“That is quite true, senorita,” he replies, stoutly. 


**HE SWEAHS to win doctor JACK^S widow:* 27 


and then adds: ‘‘You know there has been much 
lawlessness in Valparaiso since the Balmaceda party 
was defeated, and I am uneasy about leaving her 
unprotected in a common hotel.” 

That beautiful lip curls slightly. 

“Ah! Doctor Jack, do not worry yourself about 
your wife — there is one in Valparaiso who means to 
protect her — whose forte in life is caring for the 
widows.” 

“Indeed — but Avis is no widow,” with a laugh. 

“He means she shall be before the steamer sails 
on which you expect to take passage for the grand 
country of California.” 

“The duse he does!” exclaims Doctor Jack, ele- 
vating his eyebrows; “and who may this party be 
who appears so solicitous about my welfare and that 
of my wife?” 

“He is an Englishman.” 

“ Perhaps I can guess now — I had a glimpse of his 
figure to-day, and it reminded me of a certain man, 
though I have not mentioned the fact to my wife. 
Is it Lord Rackett Plympton?” 

“He is the man. Before you met your wife he 
adored her — he lost the maid, and now he swears to 
win Doctor Jack’s widow.” 

“Bless me, that’s cool. I’ll have to keep an eye 
out for milord. But it was not alone to tell me this 
you sent me that note?” 

She shrugs her shoulders; rounded and perfection 
itself they are. 

“Ah! senor, a variety of reasons caused me to 
seek an audience with you. I am not sorry, and I 
trust that you may not be. But what is the matter 
with your hand, senor — your handkerchief, carts- 
sima ! it is spotted with blood.” 


28 SWEARS TO WIN DOCTOR JACK'S WIDOW." 

‘‘Your pardon, senorita— two rascals, cowards 
both, waylaid me in a narrow calle, I struck one 
and bruised my knuckle.” 

“And the other?” breathlessly, her eyes like 
stars. 

“ I tossed through a door. Bah ! they were babies 
both — a dozen such would hardly make a man.” 

“Ah! senor, you are brave, and I adore a man 
who knows not fear. You are too valiant to fall 
under an assassin’s knife.” 

“Please Heaven, I have no craving for it.” 

“And this English tiger must be thwarted in so 
far as he means to have your life.” 

Doctor J ack turns the drift of conversation. 

“You spoke of my adventure in the nitrate 
regions — how knew you I had been there?” 

“I am acquainted with your mission to Chili, 
senor— how you eluded the trap Colonel North set 
for you— what work you did in Santiago — how your 
wife was secretly carried away to the cloister, from 
which you rescued her without assistance, as few 
men could have done.” 

Doctor Jack fails to catch the implied compli- 
ment. 

“Ah! your words give me a sudden thought— an 
inspiration. Was this British bull-dog in Santiago 
at that time?” 

“Si, senor.” 

“ Then he shall account to me for that outrage. 
He throws the gantlet down — Doctor Jack picks it 
up and swears that he will not quit the shores of 
Chili until this debt is canceled.” 

The American’s eyes flash Are, and he shuts his 
teeth with the sudden indignation that rushes 
through his mind— he can forgive an insult aimed 


SWEARS TO WIN DOCTOR JACK'S WIDOW." 29 


against himself, but the man who dares to offer any 
indignity to Doctor Jack's wife will presently imag- 
ine he has run up against a buzz-saw or one of those 
typhoons that cause such terror in tropical seas. 

“Senor, I am not disappointed in what I see of 
you— I knew you had no fear in your soul, and 
.behold, every action proves it. You are not sorry 
you came here?” 

“Already you have told me enough, charming 
lady, to doubly repay me for my trouble ; and yet I 
do not believe you have touched upon the principal 
reason of my summons.” 

He is looking straight in her eyes as he speaks, 
and cannot fail to note the wave of color that suf- 
fuses face and neck. 

“Perhaps it was a curiosity to see you face to 
face, Doctor Jack. Quien sabe? I had heard much 
of you, yes, I have looked upon you more than once 
when perhaps you least suspected it, and I have 
long had a desire to meet you personally — to do you 
a favor. That chance came, and I availed myself 
of it.” 

“And yet that is not all,” he insists, with some- 
thing in his voice that somehow influences her — 
here and there you run across a man of magnetic 
power to whom others are drawn in a singular man- 
ner — such a character is the American known as 
Doctor Jack, who has bitter enemies and devoted 
friends. 

“No, not all,” she echoes. 

“Then tell me what more you know — give me 
warning of danger, news of those whom I have 
already outwitted, but from whose vengeful fury I 
will never be free as long as I remain on Chilian 
territory.” 


30 “ii-E bWEAES TO WIN DOCTOR JACK'S WIDOW." 

“ You refer to the secret order of the nitrate mines. 
They have sent men to this city to look after you. 
Ah! Doctor Jack, you are too daring for your own 
good. These men are Chilians— they hate foreigners. 
They seek your death, because you plucked your 
venture successfully out of their hands. One thing 
could save you. Doctor Jack.” 

“Indeed — what?” he asks, scornfully, with the air 
of a big dog that turns to look at the curs snarling 
and snapping at his heels. 

“Have you no relatives here?” 

“Hot a blessed one, senorita,” shaking his head. 

“Then it is a great pity.” 

“What — may I ask?” 

“That— you did not marry here — a Chilian wife 
would save you in this case,” she says. 

The cat is out of the bag, and even one so dull of 
comprehension in such delicate matters as Jack 
Evans, M. D., cannot fail to see the drift of her 
meaning. Instead of giving him pleasure, the pecu- 
liar nature of the situation causes a feeling to come 
over him not unlike consternation. He is equal to 
a battle royal with half a dozen men in the dark 
streets of a foreign city, or even an engagement 
with a black devil of a toro in the bull-ring at 
Madrid, but like most brave men feels himself at a 
decided disadvantage when he finds a lovely woman 
pitted against him. 

“Thanks, senorita; under the circumstances that 
were out of the question. Besides, I am perfectly 
contented with my lot in life. My wife — I would 
not be able to find her equal anywhere,” he says, 
proudly. 

“You are hardly complimentary, senor, but you 
express the same admiration as Lord Rackett.” 


SWEARS TO WIN DOCTOR JACK'S WIDOW:* 31 

“Hang his impudence— beggiog your pardon.” 

“I have some documents to show you bearing on 
this matter. I presume you will examine them, 
Senor Jack — you who think there, is only one 
woman in all the world wjio can do you a service 
will open your eyes when you see what Marilla de 
los Vegos has accomplished.” 

“ Ah ! your name— I have heard it before— where, 
I cannot think just now !” he says. 

“Perhaps one of the nuns in the cloister spoke it 
— the Lady Superior is m^^ friend— it is my money 
that endows that institution, senor. But the papers 
— will you see them?” 

“Senorita,” bowing, “with pleasure, and thank 
you deeply for your kind services.” 

“Ah! it is a service — that is, a pleasure to be of 
use to one so brave, so chivalrous toward my sex. 
Senor, you know that we ladies of Chili are like our 
Spanish ancestors — we indulge in the weed — it is 
the common thing here. Will you allow me to roll 
you a cigarette while you read, and join me in a 
smoke?” 

He smiles and acquiesces, this man who has seen 
strange things in his day, and does not deem it 
unusually odd for a lovely lady to smoke a cigarette 
with him — in Spain he has done the same thing with 
Castilian girls. All the world does not live as we do 
— travelers see so much they are surprised at noth- 
ing. 

So the charming Chilian senorita rolls him a 
cigarette with her deft fingers, and then one for 
herself — Doctor Jack is so deeply interested in what 
he reads that he fails to note the fact of her particu- 
lar care in making up these delicate rolls, but she 
keeps one eye on him the while. 


32 ^^IIE SWEABS TO WIN DOCTOR JACK'S WIDOW." 

“Allow me, senor.” 

He accepts the cigarette, and then the taper she 
quickly ignites in the gas — their hands touch while 
the exchange is being effected, and again that rosy 
flush covers her face and neck. Spanish blood is 
hot as lava overflowing old j^tna’s craters — our 
cold, self-possessed girls do not bear any resem- 
blance to the daughters of Spanish American 
climes. 

“Does it suit you, senor?” very anxiously. 

“ Admirablv,” with a half-concealed grimace, for 
like most men he detests a cigarette, though he 
must be a barbarian to refuse to smoke one when 
rolled by such dainty fingers as the Senorita Mani- 
la’s. 

“And the papers?” eagerly. 

“I find them — very important,” returning to his 
perusal with forced interest, for already does Doc- 
tor Jack feel a heavy lethargy stealing over him, 
such is the power of the subtle drug with which 
this charmer has dosed his cigarette. 

He tries to shake it off, smokes furiously and 
exhausts the cigarette, endeavors to talk, but makes 
a farce of it, gives a groan and allows his head to 
fall over upon the shoulder of the lovely Chilian 
who has watched his struggle with her heart in her 
glorious eyes. 

“ Carramba! Doctor Jack,” she says, in triumph, 
“now you are in the snare— you are mine!” 

And at exactly the same moment there enters the 
street known as the Calls los Angeles one I arry 
Kennedy, dude, from New York, and Doctor Jack’s 
wife. 


TWO WOMEN-ONE MAN! 


33 


CHAPTER IV. 

TWO WOMEN— ONE MAN ! 

Larry Kennedy swings his small figure in front of 
the street lamp with the smoked glass. 

“By Jove! here we have it, Cousin Avis — read 
yourself — the Calle los Angeles” he ejaculates. 

“But why did that driver put us down at the 
wrong corner?” she demands. 

“ Give it up, unless — a stupendous idea strikes me 
— the fellah is in league with your enemies, and 
wanted you to get lost,” declares tlie little man in a 
burst of confidence. 

“It was fortunate Jack left the letter behind him, 
or we would not have known where to seek. Look, 
here comes an alquazil along — perhaps, for a con- 
sideration, he would condescend to give us some 
information.” 

“ IPs a beastly shame, you know, that a man of 
my education and abilities must be compelled to 
ask advice from such a creature ; but the fortune of 
war compels strange things. Ah I what shall I ask, 
cousin?” 

“ Where the Don resides — the name signed to the 
letter, you remember.” 

Avis wears a heavy vail in order to conceal her 
features, for at this hour no respectable lady cares 
to be seen on the streets of this city, which at pres- 
ent is made up pretty much of discordant elements. 

The alquazil draws near, glancing suspiciously at 
the couple, but Larry believes in taking the bull by 
the horns, and advancing until he waylays the 


34 


TWO WOMEN— ONE MAN! 


officer, pushes several coins into his hand, at the 
same time inquiring, with what he believes to be the 
best of Spanish, the location of Don Rafael’s resi- 
dence. 

His meaning is at least evident, and as the Chilian 
police officer feels the silver press his palm, his 
tongue is loosened, and he proceeds to give direc- 
tions how to find the place for which they seek. 

Larry soon loses himself in what the man says, 
but preserves a dignified silence, and at the conclu- 
sion nods gravely as though he has the whole mat- 
ter preserved in that little head of his, though 
immediately turning to Avis. 

“By Jove I cousin, I hope you succeeded in catch- 
ing his meaning better than I did — his — accent is 
simply horrid, you know. It’s a beastly shame a 
man trips up on his own language !” but he is calmed 
by her assurance that she managed to master what 
the policeman said, and will be able to identify the 
place sought. 

So the pair turn into the Calle los Angeles, and 
leave the alquazil under the smoky lamp, biting the 
pesetas he has received, as though fearful lest they 
may prove to be counterfeit, or the whole affair a 
dream. 

“Let me know if you discover two lions beside a 
heavy gate. Cousin Larry.” 

“Lions I” he bursts out, and then laughs, “oh! 
yes, you mean stone ones— I understand— began to 
think we might have a grand hunt on this square of 
the angles. I’ll keep an eye out for lions every day 
of the week. My African experience, don’t you 
know, makes me a keen judge of the beast — awful 
clever of the Don to mark his place so that strangers 
may find it,” 


TWO WOMEN— ONE MAN! 


35 


The little man gabbles on in this strain until be is 
suddenly electrified with: 

“Here we are!” 

“ Bless my soul, outgeneraled after all— but then I 
never pretend to compete witJi a girl as bright as 
you, Avis.” 

“Speak low, cousin. Much may depend on our 
secrecy. Doctor Jack has enemies here — they have 
lured him away for a purpose, and his wife has 
come to the rescue to teach them what an American 
woman is capable of doing when the man she loves 
is in danger,” from which it may be seen that her 
faith in the loyalty of her liusband has never wav- 
ered an iota, in spite of the cunning plot to shake it, 
and arouse that monster, jealousy, within her faith- 
ful heart. 

Larry is by this time duly impressed with the 
serious nature of the situation. He is not quite such 
a fool as he looks, and on occasions may develop a 
surprising amount of good sense as well as philoso- 

pi'y- 

“Give your orders. Cousin Avis. You remember I 
promised to call you the general. Shall 1 break in 
this door?” 

She is compelled to smile when she glances at the 
puny figure of the dude and then takes in the mas- 
sive gate between the stone lions, and which threat- 
ens to bar their farther progress. 

“Reserve your strength, my dear Larry — unless I 
am greatly mistaken, the gate is ajar.” 

At her words the dude springs forward, and dis- 
covers the truth — there will be no necessity for 
deeds of valor on his part — at least not yet. In good 
time he may be called upon to play his part, and 
Larry Kennedy in the past has given proof that in 


36 


TWO WOMEN— ONE MAN! 


his diminutive body there lives a soul much too 
large for his size. 

He proceeds to push the heavy gate partly open, 
and Avis enters— the perfume of many flowers 
greets her — it is overpowering in the night air, and 
Doctor Jack’s wife somehow feels a strange sensa- 
tion come over her. This is the place to which her 
husband has been lured, for some purpose as yet 
unknown, and she seems to associate the perfume 
of these flowers with the secret mission of their 
enemies. 

Then, with the resolution that has characterized 
the Avis Morton of old, she recovers. 

“ Let us push on, cousin — see, lights gleam through 
the trees yonder. We will find the house there — the 
house of Don Eafael. I wish I had thought to ask 
that officer if by chance he saw Jack enter this 
street — he could not see him without remembering 
— but it is too late now.” 

They advance slowly, for although there is a wide 
path leading from the gate, a drive- way, in fact, 
under the shadow of the luxuriant trees, it is impos- 
sible to see distinctly, especially when one keeps 
watching the lights that gleam beyond. Once Avis 
stumbles and nearly falls. 

“ Beg pawdon, my dear cousin — I was an idiot not 
to offer you my arm. Lean on me — you will find 
Larry Kennedy a tower of strength in an emerg- 
ency.” 

“ Do for Heaven’s sake talk in whispers, cousin. 
We are in the enemy’s country, you know,” she 
feels impelled to say, and he realizes that even a 
brave man may be indiscreet at times. 

“I am dumb — miserably dumb,” he replies. 

It is just as well, for the house looms up before 


TWO WOMEN— ONE MAN ! 


37 


them now, though as yet they have had no glimpse 
of a living being. 

Here are the stairs — they ascend, no longer grop- 
ing in darkness, for the illumination is more than 
sufficient to disclose their surroundings. Should 
they meet any servants, Avis believes she will be 
able to manage them, first with magic silver, then 
by a glimpse of her fair face from behind the vail — 
women understand the power that lies in their 
grasp better than most men suspect — and if all else 
fails an appeal to arms can be made, when valiant 
Larry will be given an opportunity to show his met- 
tle. 

Fortunately it happens otherwise, and they arc 
not confronted b}" any Cerberus at the door, de- 
manding their business. 

A strange silence reigns in the house, and Larry 
likens it to a great tomb. Here are lights and flow- 
ers, but where can they find the human occupants — 
why do they not hear the hum of voices or the notes 
of music? 

So they pass into the great hall, where hang ele- 
gant paintings, relics of the chase, of war — many 
things that proclaim the proprietor a man of culti- 
vation and wealth. 

A spirit of unrest has assailed Avis — something 
seems to assure her that the man she loves and hon- 
ors is under this roof and in danger. Putting this 
and that together — the note that came into Jack’s 
hands, the apparently accidental conversation which 
she heard under her window at the hotel, and Lar- 
ry’s simple explanation regarding what he knows — 
her woman’s wit has been able to figure out some- 
thing like the truth. At any rate she believes her 
coming to be an inspiration. 


38 


TWO WOMEN— ONE MAN! 


A door on the right opens into a luxurious draw- 
ing-room — she runs thither and, holding her breath, 
looks in. 

The gas is turned low, and not a sign of human 
occupancy does she discover. This is only a begin- 
ning, however — other rooms remain which will un- 
doubtedly prove of a more profitable nature. 

As she turns, after sweeping her eager eyes around 
the richly decorated room, she catches the attitude 
of Larry Kennedy. The New York dude is a picture 
as he stands there like a statue, his heavy cane 
grasped in one hand while the other is raised with 
the finger pressing his lips. 

Evidently the little man has himself made a dis- 
covery of great importance— at least he holds such 
an opinion. 

In an instant, as it seems. Doctor Jack’s wife has 
flown to the side of her cousin — he says not a word, 
but points through the door-way close by, and Avis 
Evans, looking, is almost paralyzed with a sudden 
cold fear at the sight she beholds. 

Imagine a loving, faithful wife being a witness to 
the caresses a rival bestows upon the man she loves 
with all her soul— that is what occurs in this grand 
Chilian mansion, which has been invaded by the 
Americans. 

A woman sits in a chair — she half supports the 
head of a man seated very close to her, pats his 
face with gentle little strokes, and murmurs, while 
she thus caresses, words of love, devotion. 

The light shines full upon his face, and Avis can 
see beyond all doubt the well-known features of her 
husband. 

Under such circumstances even the mildest 
woman under heaven would feel her blood leap like 


39 


TWO WOMEN— 0N£1 MAN ! 

boiling lava through her veins, and Avis does not 
pretend to be an angel, even if Jack has many times 
called her one. 

She forgets exerything save that here is a woman 
usurping her rights. One thing she does notice in- 
stantly, and it gives her considerable satisfaction — 
he makes no movement to return the caresses thus 
bestowed — his face, as seen in the gas-light, pro- 
claims the fact that he is asleep, or else, God help 
her, dead — it’s pallor has alarmed her. 

Obeying the impulse that urges even the weak to 
claim their rights. Avis starts forward. Larry trots 
at her heels like a faithful little dog — Larry who is 
ready to fight or flirt at any hour of the day, such 
is the singular conglomeration of qualities that 
make up his composite parts. 

As she enters the room perhaps the sweep of her 
garments reaches the ear of the dreamer who thus 
sits and caresses the face of the senseless doctor. 
At any rate she looks up in astonishment, for never 
a suspicion has entered her head that witnesses are 
present. 

Avis Evans looks upon the face of her rival, the 
Chilian girl who loves her husband, and whose 
strange notions of right allow her to plot against 
the peace of a wife. She shivers as she looks— the 
wonderful beauty of that face astounds her ; but 
never for one moment does she doubt the faithful 
love of her Jack — that has long ago been tried in 
the fire and found to be pure gold without alloy. 

“ Senorita, I will relieve you from further trouble 
—allow me to take charge of my husband,” she 
says, quietly. 

“You I” grasps the other, her eyes dilated with 
surprise, and growing iMYj—' cospita! I know you 


40 


DOCTOR JACK WAKES UP, 


now — the woman he does not love, but calls his 
wife I” 


CHAPTER V. 

DOCTOR JACK WAKES UP. 

It is a cruel shaft, mercilessly aimed, but the 
shield of perfect trust and love still protects the 
heart of that American wife and turns the barb 
aside. 

Avis winces under it, but her self-possession 
returns, and this makes her mistress of the situa- 
tion. Even in the house of her rival, which she has 
invaded without an invitation, Avis proves her 
superior powers. 

“What you insinuate is entirely false. You lured 
him here with a letter in which you promised him 
certain information respecting the business that 
keeps him in Chili. Under the name of Don Rafael 
you did this. He came, fearing nothing, and ready 
to brave all risks in order to learn more. You failed 
to move him while he had his senses, and you steal 
those away in some manner so that you may win. 
But you forgot one thing — Doctor Jack’s wife. She 
has a mortgage on his affection, which you nor any 
other woman dare not raise — she is here to press 
her claim — to prove herself worthy of the love and 
devotion of a man who never in all his life has done 
a dishonorable deed. Once again I tell you to leave 
that seat — I am present to care for my own I” 

Her words are cool and clear— they do not speak 
of passion, such as a Chilian girl might naturally 
exhibit under similar circumstances, but at the 


DOCTOR JACK WAKES UP. 


41 


same time there is a light in her gray eyes that 
warns Senorita Marilla to beware. 

At first she assumes a defiant air — she is in her 
own castle, and that gives courage. Then her mood 
changes— perhaps she sees Larry, who, struck by 
her wonderful beauty, has assumed an air of power- 
ful admiration, just as a sun-worshiper might gaze 
upon the object of his adoration — his singular face 
when thus set is enough to disturb one’s mind. 

Be that as it may, she allows Jack’s head to fall 
upon the side of the chair, as she springs to her feet 
to face his wife— the shock has some power to par- 
tially dispel the effect of the subtle drug which, 
given in the cigarette, has stolen the doctor’s senses 
away, for he opens his eyes, stares vacantly about 
him, catches sight of Avis, smiles in perfect content, 
and sleeps again. 

This one incident gives hope, however, that he may 
be overcoming the drug, which has not laid hold on 
him quite as powerfully as was anticipated. 

“How did you come here?” asks Marilla, curiosity 
rising above all else for the moment — she has been 
almost stupefied at this sudden drop in her plans, 
this unexpected appearance of the brave American 
wife of the man with whom she has become enam- 
ored. 

“My cousin brought me”— it might be more cor- 
rect the other way, since Larry makes a poor leader 
— “ we put one thing and another together and — 
well, we arrived, you see, in time to relieve you of 
all responsibility,” and she bends over Doctor Jack, 
raises his head, caresses his brow, and then gently 
shakes him to see whether he may not be aroused. 

“What have you done to him, woman — why does 
he act this way?” she demands, pausing in her 


42 


DOCTOB JACK WAKES UP. 


efforts, to look up into the face of the daughter of 
Don Rafael, who, having recoverd her senses in a 
measure, now shrugs her plump shoulders as she 
replies : 

“ Carramha! how should I know — we were talking 
of business— he draws his chair closer to mine so 
that he can look in my eyes” — turning aside, unable 
to meet the disdainful gaze of his wife — “ I feel his 
breath on my cheek — then I hear a groan, and his 
head falls on my shoulder. Well, I am surprised, 
but I am not afraid — I say to myself, ‘this man 
loves me — I will bring him to his senses with my 
touch upon his face.’ Bah I you are so rude as to 
disturb me before I quite succeed, but I do not de- 
spair. He is mine — you cannot take him from me I” 
defiantly. 

“What brazen assurance I” Avis cries — she has 
never known its equal. 

“Aha I you are Doctor Jack’s wife by the law, but 
look at me — do you think he is blind — does your 
plain face compare with mine — I have been called 
the belle of all Chili — at my feet have knelt great 
men— one only I encourage, and he is my devoted 
slave. You may hover over him, madam, you may 
force him to deny the truth, but hark you, he loves 
me!” 

What blasphemy this seems in the ears of that 
wife— and yet not for one moment does her perfect 
trust falter— she knows the man whom she loves, 
she has read the depths of his heart, and found 
there an integrity that all earth cannot swerve. 
Angels could not make her believe him guilty of 
any deceit toward the woman he calls his wife. 

Again she shakes Jack— if he would only come 
back to his senses they could leave this place. 


DOCTOR JACK WAKES UP. 


43 


“ I do not believe your words — look, in his fingers 
he holds the end of a cigarette — you rolled that, 
senorita, and in it I read the cause of his strange 
stupor. Wake up, Jack, and tell this woman she 
plots in vain — that when she next seeks to trap a 
man let her make sure he has no wife to interfere.” 

The third shake grows more energetic, and Doctor 
Jack even grunts, as a man will at being disturbed 
in a delightful nap — grunts and settles himself 
down in the easy-chair as though he is contented to 
be let alone, which his faithful spouse does not 
mean shall occur, for she gives him other and more 
vigorous turns, just as one might use a dear friend 
who had swallowed certain drugs and must be kept 
awake, as slumber means death. 

This peculiar proceeding is watched by the two 
persons in the room, though of course with differ- 
ent motions — Larry desires to see his friend and 
cousin arouse himself, while the senorita sneers at 
the apparent futile efforts Avis puts forth. 

“Spare yourself the trouble — he will not respond 
to your appeals,” she says. 

“It'is false — see, he is even now showing signs of 
returning consciousness.” 

She renews her endeavors — the massage of love 
may yet win— it is a wife who thus strives to arouse 
her liege lord. 

Larry has been an interested spectator to this 
spectacle, but now he finds something to occupy his 
attention in another quarter. Voices are heard — 
and new actors appear upon the scene. 

“Great Scott I how is this? — the lady— it is Avis, 
and here I” says Lord Rackett as he pushes his great 
athletic figure through the door, followed by Col- 
onel Garcia. 


44 


DOCTOR JACK WAEE15 UP. 


Was ever fortune so cruel? What has sent them 
here at this particular moment, when Doctor Jack 
lies helpless in his chair with Avis hovering over 
him, leaving only Larry, small of statute but a giant 
in nerve, to stand against them. 

He grasps the situation at once and pushes him- 
self forward so as to come in front — what conversa- 
tion he heard between these men on the Plaza Heel- 
right has warned him concerning their attentions, 
and he feels that a hawk has suddenly darted down 
upon the dove-cote, threatening its fair inmate with 
harm. 

“ Stand back, fellows I” snaps this animated dwarf, 
as he whirls his heavy cane in the faces of the ad- 
vancing couple, who, startled by the unexpected bar 
placed upon their further progress, come to a halt. 

If looks can kill, their scowls will do the Ameri- 
can up in quick order. They exchange a meaning 
glance and then move, not forward, but to either 
side. Such a division of forces will have a disastrous 
effect upon his case, as it leaves him unable to watch 
both men and protect front and rear. 

While this little affair takes place Avis still wres- 
tles with the stupefied doctor — she spares him not, 
since the situation has become so critical in its 
nature — Larry is devoted, but even such bravery 
when in a small body cannot long stand out against 
overwhelming numbers. His strong arm — Doctor 
Jack’s — would soon turn the scale. So she works 
and talks industriously, pleading with him to arouse 
himself, to shake off this lethargy and save them 
from ruin. 

“Wake up. Jack, dear Jack! It is Avis who calls, 
your own Avis. We are beset, and need your help. 
Wake up, or all is lost, for Larry cannot hold out 


DOCTOR JACK WAKES UP. 


45 


against them I” she cries, accompanying every few 
words with a shake that makes his teeth rattle, and 
by this means she is slowly but surely causing the 
drugged doctor to throw off the incubus that has 
for a while pralyzed his brain — he gasps for breath, 
opens his eyes, and stares in a stupid manner about 
him. 

“Larry — how in the world — oh, yes, we’re in 
Spain yet— I see — and things look dused ugly for us. 
Bless me, I can’t keep awake — it’s agony to try. 
Avis ; there’s a dear girl, let me have a cat-nap and 
I’ll be feeling wonderfully better.” 

But the same “dear girl” is just as determined 
that he shall not have a relapse— the change, if any 
occurs, must be in the other direction, and so this 
singular massage of love continues, while Doctor 
Jack groans and expostulates ; presently, perhaps, 
she will succeed in getting through his benumbed 
brain the real cause for it all, when the man must 
become himself. 

Already Larry struggles in the arms of the enemy ; 
the two men, turning, have come at him from 
different directions. His heavy cane does yoeman 
service, and the first whack sends Colonel Leon 
Garcia, that noble exponent of “how to win glory 
from behind a tree or stone wall,” to the floor, with 
stars dancing before his eyes. 

Unfortunately Larry is not an Irishman wield- 
ing a shillelah, and before he can recover himself 
after making this ten-strike, the second of his en- 
emies has descended upon him as might an ava- 
lanche in the Alps. 

Lord Rackett is so large, and his antagonist of such 
diminutive stature, that it would seem as though 
the latter must be crushed at once ; but the battle is 


46 


DOCTOR JACK WAKES UP. 


not always to the strong nor the race to the swift, 
and Larry is so exceedingly nimble that he manages 
to elude the punishment meant for him, while at 
the same time he keeps up a vicious fusillade of 
savage kicks at the shins of the Briton, which must 
be very exasperating and painful. 

Garcia picks himself up from the floor — Garcia, 
who is a beautiful sight to behold, for the heavy 
cane thumped him on the forehead, and already a 
lump has arisen the size of an egg. 

From his eyes flash the fires of hatred and re- 
venge. The hot Spanish blood demands retaliation, 
and woe to Larry if he once feels this man's grip. 

No wonder Avis increases her cries and the fury 
of her massage. He must arouse himself or they 
are all lost. And it happens that while she thus 
entreats and exhorts she by chance gives utterance 
to the name of the man whom he has learned to 
despise— the man who has sworn to wed Doctor 
Jack’s widow. It electrifies him as might a galvanic 
battery. He springs erect. 

‘'Ah! where is this British lion, this plotter 
against a woman’s peace?” he cries; “let me show 
him how an American can defend his own. I see 
him, the rascal. Avis, dear, step aside, and don’t 
fear, for your Jack is on deck, and himself again.’’ 

Yes, thank Heaven! Doctor Jack has come to 
time. 


WEEN KIllKE SMITH COMES IN, 


47 


CHAPTER VI. 

WHEN KIRKE SMITH COMES IN. 

The situation has undergone a change, and now 
the American party is on top. Avis no longer has 
cause to cry out and feel that a dire calamity over- 
shadows them, for she has perfect faith in Jack’s 
ability to take care of any man opposed to him. 

When Doctor Jack so suddenly leaves the side of 
his wife, his eyes are fastened upon the tall figure 
of the Briton, who is waging his queer and unequal 
light against the plucky bantam, Larry Kennedy. 
En route, however. Jack has his attention drawn to 
the Chilian officer, whose attitude is so threatening 
that it is plain to be seen the dude stands in more 
danger from this source than from Lord Rackett. 

Hence, Jack changes his course, and heads for 
the colonel, who, with a quick eye for danger, which 
has served him on many an occasion in the recent 
war, realizes that a tornado is bearing down upon 
him. 

The Chilian is wise beyond his years, and discreet. 
There is not a man in all the country better able to 
take care of himself. 

A dead man is of small service to any one, and 
under this policy Colonel Leon knows how to skip 
out of an engagement with a whole skin. 

He waits not on the order of his going, but, drop- 
ping his ferocious aspect, as well as the dude’s cane, 
which he has picked up from the floor, he turns and 
makes a beautiful flying leap through the door, 


48 


WHEN KIRKE SMITE COMES IN. 


leaving the Englishman alone to face his foes. At 
any rate, the colonel will live to fight another day. 

Doctor Jack can now turn his attention in the di- 
rection of the Briton, who sees him coming, and is 
not averse to the meeting. He fiings Larry to one 
side with a tremendous sweep of his muscular arm, 
as one might brush away a troublesome fiy. 

“At last!” he exclaims, almost savagely. 

He has cherished a spirit of revenge for years, 
and here is the man against whom it has been di- 
rected. The woman he once loved, ay, and for whom 
he still cherishes a passion, looks on. It will give 
him the keenest delight to punish her husband be- 
fore her eyes. 

As for Doctor Jack, what he has lately heard con- 
cerning this man, from the lips of the one with 
whom he has been in league, gives him a fierce de- 
sire to meet the Briton — to teach him that Ameri- 
cans are ever ready to do battle in defense of their 
wives, and give the man a lesson he may long re- 
member. 

So they meet. 

It is like the impact of mighty forces, for both 
men are powerful, both urged on by the strongest 
motive force in the world — hatred. 

Avis looks on with glistening eyes. Her only fear 
is lest Jack may have been weakened by the drugged 
cigarette, and unable to do himself justice. In 
such an event she stands ready to fiy to his aid — 
something she holds in her hand will change the 
tide of battle instantly— at any rate, Jack must 
not be hurt. 

Larry, too, watches with intense interest, and is 
ready to join in the fray, if necessary. He can 
hang upon the British bull-dog's arm, and prevent 


WHEN KIKKE SMITH COMES IN. 


49 


him from utilizing his full power, or, by clutching 
one of his legs, trip him up. 

It happens, however, that Doctor Jack does not 
need any assistance. He has been thoroughly 
aroused by the gravity of the situation, and the 
presence of this man who covets his wife, so he 
shows himself at his best. 

They whirl about the room locked in each other’s 
embrace like a teetotum, or a couple of spinning 
dervishes, coming against the far wall with a crash. 
It is Lord Rackett who gets the full benefit of this 
contact, and it rather takes the wind out of his sails. 

He soon concludes that he does not care quite as 
much about demolishing the Yankee who carried 
off the prize, as he imagined. It must have been a 
mistake. Then there is Garcia, poor Garcia, who re- 
ceived such a wicked crack over the head. Perhaps 
his mind is wandering, and he may get into some 
trouble unless he has a friend to look after him. 

Thus many philanthropic reasons appear to Lord 
Rackett why he should terminate this little engage- 
ment in which he gets decidedly the worst of it. He 
suddenly makes a supreme effort, and breaks away 
from the other’s hold. Jack is not particularly 
anxious for his company, although bent .on deliver- 
ing punishment. He never seeks a quarrel, and yet 
tliey find him always ready to take care of himself. 

When he discovers that he is not pursued, the 
Briton turns in the door-way to hurl defiance back 
at the man with whom he has just been engaged, 
and assure him they will meet again. Evidently the 
date of that meeting is not the present, for when 
Doctor Jack makes a rush in that direction Lord 
Rackett Plympton vanishes like the morning mist 
in the valleys of the stately Andes. 


60 


WHE^l KIRKE SMITH COMES IN. 


Jack looks around, and is just in time to see the 
Chilian senorita endeavoring to leave the room. 
Larry sees fit to block the door, bowing, with one 
hand on his heart, and what is meant to be a killing 
smile upon his face; but Marilla de los Vegos 
snatches a small dagger from her bosom, and at 
sight of it the dude quickly steps aside, again bow- 
ing as he allows her to depart. Larry has no desire 
to run contrary to the will of an infuriated beauty 
who handles such toys. 

The first act of Jack Evans, when the clouds of 
battle have passed and .victory is assured, is to turn 
and take his wife in his arms, and Avis, pleased to 
know that her massage of love has been successful, 
smiles in his face as she nestles near his heart, feel- 
ing that the plots of the lovely senorita to steal her 
Jack can never succeed. 

“We must get out of this, by Jove I” remarks the 
little man, soberly. 

“ Larry, my dear boy, how are you? Shake hands. 
It’s like old times to set eyes on your honest phiz 
again. What brings you to this republic of the Pa- 
cific, for I take it you are not here by mere acci- 
dent?” 

“ Tell you later, dear boy — concerns your welfare, 
too. At present it stwikes me the sooner we quit 
this palatial twap the better.” 

“Wise Larry. That long head of yours is full of 
bright thoughts. For my part” — with a perceptible 
shudder and a curious look at Avis — “ I have not 
the slightest desire to remain here a minute longer 
than I can help. We can have a good explanation 
later. What are these papers — ah ! the bait with 
which I was drawn into the trap. It may pay me to 
take them along and examine them at my leisure.” 


WHEN KIRKE BMITU COMES IN, 


61 


So saying, he gathers them up, after which the 
trio start to leave the house. Various sounds can be 
heard in dilferent parts of the mansion, which is 
certainly far from being quiet now ; but they move 
along unmolested, and presently reach the front 
door. 

Down the steps they pass, heading for the large 
gate. If this should be closed they may experience 
new trouble. A chance will then be offered for 
Larry to show his mettle and demolish the obstruc- 
tion, though the chances are it will require all the 
muscular force which Doctor Jack can bring to bear 
in order to break down such a barrier. 

Fortune favors them. The heavy gate is still ajar 
just as Avis and Cousin Larry left it, and in another 
moment, with relieved and thankful hearts, the trio 
reach the Calle los Angeles. 

All is plain sailing from this on. At the point of 
junction with the main street Doctor Jack sights a 
vehicle that will hold them all, so he hails the 
driver. It chances to be a private carriage, but 
what of that? The magic silver proves too much for 
the driver, and he agrees to carry them all to the 
fonda, which they presently reach. 

Time — n ine-twen ty . 

A good deal has occurred since the sun went down 
in the west, and considerably more is upon the pro- 
gramme for the next twenty-four hours. The world 
will be electrified by an event that has been im- 
pending for some time, but of that more anon. 

When Doctor Jack has seen Avis safe in their 
rooms at the hotel, and an explanation has been 
given on both sides that clears up all hazy points 
connected with this singular affair, he asks to be 
excused for a short time, as Larry awaits him be- 


52 


whe:n kiree smite comes in. 


low — Larry who has come to Chili on a mission, 
and whose first business it has been to serve the 
man he seeks. 

Of course, their conversation is an earnest one. 
Jack asks many questions which the other answers 
promptly. Upon the taller man’s brow can be seen 
a frown, as though the news thus brought is not of 
the most pleasant nature in the world. 

He is used to dealing with knotty questions, how- 
ever, and allows no problem to go unsolved when it 
concerns the welfare of his fortunes, or the health 
of one he loves. 

“ The clouds look pretty dark, Larry, but you can 
trust me to brush them away. I thousfht I had my 
hands full before, but this new trouble, following 
on the heels of the adventure we have just passed 
through, adds to it.” 

“I’ll stake my money on you, old boy,” declares 
Larry, whose admiration for the doctor almost 
reaches the point of fetish worship. 

“We are being watched even now. When you 
turn, carelessly notice that fellow who leans on the 
bar - he is interested in us.” 

“By Jove! I don’t like his looks,” says Larry, at 
which Jack laughs. 

“You’ll find a good many chaps in this town who 
have no claim on beauty. We’ll set this fellow 
down as a spy.” 

“They know you’re here. What else can they 
want, the beggars?” 

“You see, I carry some papers— this syndicate 
would like to get hold of them. That explains his 
presence here. We will outwit them, my boy. I 
work best when rushed, and all these dangers rather 
crowd me, you know,” 


WHEN KIBKE SMITH COMES IN. 


63 


“ Where do you go?” as Jack moves away. 

“To interview that fellow,” is the reply. 

The dude watches Doctor Jack have a talk with 
the dark-faced Chilian, who appears ugly enough to 
be troublesome; but the American’s manner is 
magical, and almost against his will the other is 
drawn into a conversation, though his manner 
shows suspicion. 

At length he walks away, leaving the hotel. 

“Well?” says Larry, as the other joins him. 

“Just as I suspected. He is in their employ. I 
sent a message by him which may have some effect 
upon them, and again may fall flat. All I want is 
another day and night in this city. My messenger 
from the mines will arrive by that time, and we will 
sail for the golden shores of California.” 

“ Ah ! you seem to put gweat confidence in this 
messenger,” drawls Larry. 

“ Because I know him, and when you meet Kirke 
Smith ” 

“By the gods! if you’ve got that Texan lightning 
arrester engaged I give in. Jack, dear boy.” 

“You met him?” 

“In Hew Orleans. I shall look for his advent 
with cuweosity, I assure you. If a wegirnent inter- 
fered, Kirke would wade through.” 

“ He promised to he here by to-morrow night, and 
unless he breaks his word we’ll sail by the follow- 
ing day. I am seriously thinking of changing at 
the isthmus, taking steamer in the gulf and heading 
for Hew York. This is the effect of the news you 
brought. At any rate, sail we do, if Kirke Smith 
comes in.” 


54 . 


THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 


CHAPTER VIL 

THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 

If Doctor Jack imagines for a moment that his 
enemies are asleep, he labors under a delusion to be 
sure. Men of the Lord Rackett order being built 
upon the bull-dog system, do not give up a cherished 
object easily. A little backset only arouses more of 
the stubborn spirit in them, and they set about 
forming new and ingenious plans in the place of the 
bubbles that have burst. 

The American is deeply concerned regarding cer- 
tain things, and makes a proposition to Larry, who 
readily acquiesces. Then Doctor Jack seeks his 
rooms above, where he finds Avis, reading by the 
light of a lamp. 

“ I have decided to see the head of the police force, 
the Intendente as they call him, concerning certain 
facts. Larry will remain below, dear, in case you 
want him,” he says. 

To his surprise. Avis shivers as she puts her arms 
around his neck. 

''Be careful, I beg of you. Jack.” 

"Why, my dear girl, you have been with me in 
scenes of danger before now, and never showed the 
white feather. Why, you are trembling all over. 
What does this mean?” 

The discovery he has made alarms him. Her 
health is more to him than all else. 

"Oh I Jack, since you left me, as I sat in my chair. 


TEE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK 


65 


I had a terrible dream. It seemed to me as though 
they had poisoned you.” 

“ Heaven forbid ! I don’t look like a dead man, 
do I, Avis dear?” he says, cheerily. 

“ It made a strong impression on my mind, and 
the first thing my eyes fell upon as I awoke shud- 
dering, was the bowl of beef tea which was sent in 
for you some time ago.” 

He laughs. 

“ And, of course, you imagined some one had been 
meddling with it. Come, my dear girl, the sooner 
we are out of this country the better it will be for 
your nerves, which have been dreadfully tried of 
late.” 

“Oh! Jack, what would I not give if both of us 
were in Hew York, or on our California farm. This 
foolish notion, as you term it, grew upon me instead 
of departed; in imagination, I could see a dozen 
vipers in that bowl — it grew abhorrent to me.” 

“And so you threw it away,” noting that it no 
longer rests upon the table. “Why, my dear, if it 
were still here I would speedily prove to you the 
harmless quality of the beef tea.” 

“By drinking it?” 

“Yes, as I have often done before, since my sick- 
ness last spring.” 

“I feared as much, so — I tested it.” 

“Ah, you drank it, then!” a little uneasily, look- 
ing into her pale face. 

“Ho, no, thank Heaven I was not that foolish. You 
remember the Maltese cat that made friends with 
me when we first took these rooms?” 

“Yes, yes.” 

“Just when I was worrying over what I should 
do, I heard her cry outside the door. A sudden 


66 


THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 


thought flashed into my mind. I let her come in, 
poor thing.” 

“Poor thing?” he echoes, his flesh beginning to 
creep. 

“ My next move was to put the bowl down on the 
floor, and pussy began to eagerly lap up the con- 
tents. That was at half -past nine o’clock exactly.” 

“Yes,” his voice is low and awed now, as though 
he has caught the infection of her alarm. 

“ When she had lapped about a quarter of the 
fluid, the cat stopped, and I breathlessly awaited 
the result.” 

“Well, what came of it, dear?” 

She points to something on the floor. 

“Under that traveling-shawl, Jack.” 

He springs forward, bends, and snatches the 
shawl away ; then a cry bursts from his lips. Lying 
upon the floor is the body of a gray cat, stretched 
in such a shape that its death must have been one 
of agony. 

“Heavens, this is terrible!” says Doctor Jack, as 
he stands there and gazes, while Avis clutches hold 
of his arm in a trembling way. 

The thought which almost paralyzes Jack is in 
connection with Avis ; what if she had taken some 
of this devil’s broth. Surely Providence has watched 
over them both. 

“I knew my enemies hated me, but it never 
entered my mind that they would descend to such 
a thing as poison. What more could be expected in 
this country after a bitter civil war, when the pas- 
sions of men have been inflamed to the utmost. It 
gave you a shock ; I don’t wonder at it.” 

Grinding his teeth with rage, he takes up the de- 
funct animal. His first thought is to toss it out upon 


THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 


57 


the street, but then he remembers he may need some 
evidence. 

“I will leave it in the hall-way,” he says. 

“But you are not gong out now, Jack?” 

“ There is more reason than ever that I should seek 
the Intendente; when such diabolical business is 
being carried on he should know the facts. I leave 
you armed. Avis, and Larry is close at hand. You 
are not afraid?” 

“For myself — no. It is of you I think,” she re- 
plies, her old brave nature asserting itself. 

“Do not worry. I shall take a carriage at the 
door, and come back the same way. The distance 
is not far. I will return in an hour.” 

He examines the beef tea that remains, and even 
pours a portion into a vial. 

“ Perhaps he may wish to have a sample analyzed. 
It may assist the ends of justice, so I will go pre- 
pared.” 

Doctor Jack embraces his wife and then leaves 
the apartment, taking the poor feline with him. 
His feelings are of a more intense form than when 
he entered, for this last terrible blow of an unscru- 
pulous foe has unsettled even his iron nerves. 

It is evident that unseen enemies are around him, 
ready to strike in the dark. He groans to think that 
Avis is here with him, exposed to these dangers. If 
she were only safe, he could better afford to laugh 
at the plottings of his enemies. 

Below he finds Larry, to whom he confides the 
new and alarming turn which the case has taken. 
As might be expected, this worthy is astounded, and 
shows it on his face. Like a brave man, he feels 
able to meet open foes, but this cowardly way of 
seeking revenge, adopted by the secret cabal 


58 THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 

against whom Doctor Jack has pitted himself, is of 
such a terrifying, vindictive, diabolical nature that 
it almost freezes the blood. 

Leaving the little man on guard. Jack passes out- 
side to find a vehicle which will carry him to the 
Intendencia. One happens to be near. It looks like 
a lucky chance, which he is only too willing to em- 
brace. If he did but know that this same driver has 
twice refused a fare within the last half hour, per- 
haps his suspicions might be the sooner aroused. 

The night ride begins. 

It is an ordinary hack in which Doctor Jack finds 
himself. He pays little attention to the vehicle it- 
self, since its erratic movements presently engage 
his regards. 

The driver must be drunk, he at first concludes. 
Then it flashes through his mind that when he held 
his brief conversation with this worthy the man 
gave no evidence of being under the influence of 
liquor. Indeed, Jack was inclined to believe him 
unusually bright and smart for a Valparaiso Jehu. 

This, then, brings the case down to one of design. 
If the man is out of his mind, there is a method in 
his madness. His eccentric movements, passing up 
one street and down another, might do for a man 
trying to throw another off the track, hut they are 
certainly entirely out of place for a driver who has 
been hired at a round figure to take a fare to police 
headquarters as soon as possible. 

“Confound the fellow, what can he mean?” mut- 
ters the American, as for the third time his vehicle 
leaves the main avenue and plunges down into a 
darker calle. 

It has gone beyond a joke. Doctor Jack hesitates 
a moment ere deciding what ought to be done, and 


THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 59 

then pokes his head out of the window, half-expect- 
ing to see some foot-pads with whom the driver is 
in collusion. 

The rattle of wheels drowns his voice when he 
speaks, and he seriously contemplates firing a shot 
past the fellow's ear that must bring him to terms. 
A shout, however, accomplishes the same thing. 
The Jehu turns, beholds his fare making a threat-' 
ening movement, and pulls hastily up. 

Doctor Jack fiercely demands the reason for his 
erratic movements, whereupon the man abjectly 
apologizes. The only excuse he makes is that the 
pavement is bad on certain sections of the main 
street, which it is policy on his part to avoid. 

“Well, get to the office of the Intendente as speed- 
ily as possible. It’s all I ask.” 

Perhaps his excuse is valid, but Jack has seen 
enough of life to doubt it. He believes the man has 
another motive, and is in league with outside 
parties, though what his purpose may be is a mys- 
tery. 

The night air is chilly, but Jack keeps a window 
open, though he has to fasten it, as some secret 
spring pushes it shut. His mind is wrought up by 
the recent events that have occurred, and he finds 
plenty to think about, which will form the basis of 
his conversation with the Intendente. 

Presently it strikes Jack that there is a peculiar, 
though pleasant odor in the vehicle. He did not 
notice it when he entered, hence it must be exhaled 
from some receptacle as they jolt along over the 
road. 

He is at once suspicious. The very fact that the 
odor has a soothing effect, and makes him drowsy, 
causes alarm. Such things he has read of as hap- 


60 


THE STRANGE ADVENTURE IN A HACK. 


pening in London and Paris, where wonderful games 
of fraud are inaugurated, but who would dream of 
such a thing in old Valparaiso? 

Doctor Jack can circumvent a game that is even 
better played than this. He puts his head out of the 
window, and breathes the fresh air of the night, 
which invigorates him so that he can decide upon 
his next move. On a former occasion he remembers 
pulling himself out of the window of a hack, and 
reaching the roof. He tries it again, and succeeds 
as before, nor does the driver suspect his presence 
near until Jack gives him a dig in the ribs that 
causes the fellow to roar aloud in sudden fright. 

Turning, he beholds his fare coolly seated on the 
roof of the vehicle, and hears spoken in Spanish the 
words : 

“I’ll finish the ride on top, man; the odor of your 
vehicle doesn’t please me. How, make a bee-line 
for our destination, or I’ll tumble you overboard in 
a jiffy.” 

Baffled in all he has undertaken the Jehu heads 
once more for the main street. His looks amuse the 
American, who would fain draw from him the secret 
he guards, but the fellow at least has the merit of 
being taciturn when ugly. When at length he 
alights before the flaming red lantern that marks 
the Intendente’s office. Jack believes he can well 
afford to spare the driver who has played him false, 
so he pays the fellow off and enters the office. 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE 


61 


CHAPTER VIII. 

WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE. 

The office of the Valparaiso chief of police is not 
a model of comfort by any means, and a strong 
odor of tobacco smoke impregnates the air at all 
hours. 

Doctor Jack finds the Intendente an agreeable 
man, however, more than ordinarily shrewd for a 
Chilian officer, though not to be compared with the 
Frenchman who occupies such a position in Paris. 

So Jack tells his story, or at least as much of it 
as he deems necessary. From the manner of the 
other he concludes that the main facts are already 
known to the officer. Perhaps he has means of col- 
lecting information. Perhaps he is in some way 
connected with the secret cabal against which Jack 
Evans struggles. If the latter proves to be the 
truth, there is small chance of help from this quar- 
ter. 

At last the American completes his narrative and 
demands protection. He has not broken the laws of 
Chili, and it is the wrath of individuals in the mad 
race for wealth that has been kindled against him. 

“ I will do what I am able. Frankly, Doctor Jack, I 
must tell you my office at present is poorly equipped 
to engage with such a powerful secret society 
as your enemies. The recent events in this region 
have torn our relations asunder. We are almost in 
chaos as yet. Crime runs rampant. I hardly know 


62 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE. 


which men to trust. But I shall do my best,” he 
says, gravely. 

“ It is all I can ask. I do not know whether it is 
customary to have a permit in your city for the 
carrying of arms, but I would like you to write me 
out one. Then I shall defend myself.” 

“And Ave will hear a good account of you. Por 
Dios! I was in Madrid at the time you played your 
part in the plaza los toros, and I was forced to ad- 
mire your grit.” 

Doctor Jack smiles. It pleases him to remember 
those old scenes once in a while, when the ptinorama 
of the past sweeps before him. Meanwhile the Jn- 
tendente writes. 

“That covers the case. Doctor Jack. It is hardly 
necessary, since every one carries arms in these dis- 
turbed times. However, in case you bowl over half 
a dozen of these fellows you will be held guiltless.” 

“ They take their lives in their hands when they 
run across my path. I am a peaceable man, sir, 
but must be let alone to attend to my business. 
As for this impudent English bull-dog who wants 
to wed Doctor Jack’s widow ” 

The officer laughs aloud. 

“Pardon, but it is too comical. I have seen much 
of these Englishmen. They are brave, too, but so 
full of boast — carramha! the world belongs to them 
— Ave all breathe only because they are magnani- 
mous. Doctor Jack, I tell you I myself would give 
ten pesos to be present when you again come in 
contact with this Plympton.” 

Really, Doctor Jack is beginning to believe the 
Valparaiso chief of police may be a pleasant sort of 
felloAV after all. 

When he leaves him he has not learned a great 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE. 


63 


deal to be sure, but the mantle of police protection 
is cast upon him, whatever that may count for. At 
any rate, he has the right to protect iiimself. 

The Chilian has suggested that ho go on board the 
Baltimore. Captain Schley would doubtless receive 
a fellow-citizen of the great republic, who has be- 
come so well known as Doctor Jack, with the great- 
est pleasure in the world, and make quarters for 
himself and wife on board — at least until their ves- 
sel leaves. 

It is worth thinking over. 

Jack reaches the street. No vehicle can be seen, 
and he is now really sorry he let the other go. He 
might have kept the driver in his employ, and be- 
tween the gift of silver and the threat of lead influ- 
enced him to be faithful. 

There is only one thing to be done — he must use 
shanks’ mare and thus reach the fonda. His 
thoughts are with Avis. Heaven grant nothing else 
has occurred during his absence. The terrible na- 
ture of the last shaft, so recklessly aimed at him 
that it might easily have taken another innocent 
party for a victim, has given Jack an uneasiness 
quite foreign to his nature. 

He begins his walk. 

The hour has grown late, and it is just lacking 
seventeen minutes of midnight when he leaves the 
Intendencia. At this time the Chilian seaport might 
naturally be expected to have an air of quiet resting 
upon its streets. 

It is just the contrary. 

The success of the rebellion against Balmaceda 
has excited all the elements in the city to such an 
extent that they seem to be holding a sort of picnic 
of rejoicnig all the while. One from the States might 


64c 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE. 


readily believe an election had just taken place, for 
bonfires blaze here and there, while it is nothing 
unusual to hear a gun go off. Perhaps before settling 
down to a business life again the Chilians desire to 
use up the superfluous ammunition left over after 
the late unpleasantness. 

Jack keeps to the main street, and avoids all 
crowds that seem noisy, if by crossing over to the 
other side he can do so. Many a fracas occurs, but 
as the participants are natives, the spark is not ap- 
plied to the magazine. That explosion is left for 
another twenty-four hours. 

At last he sights the hotel. His own position is 
now assured, and the fear that pushes itself into his 
mind is in connection with his wife. 

He glances up at the windows which belong to 
his rooms. All is dark there, and no sign of life can 
be seen, but this is just as Avis has said it would be. 

It was here, just beneath the window at the cor- 
ner, that the English lord and his Chilian ally came 
to a halt as if by accident, and held their pointed 
conversation concerning Doctor Jack, which was 
saturated with venom and especially intended for 
the ears of the wife seated above. Jack smiles as he 
remembers how this carefully arranged scheme fell 
to the ground, because Avis Evans had such perfect 
confidence in her husband. 

Then, as he stands there, he remembers, too, the 
beautiful Chilian woman who has conceived such a 
passion for him, and shudders as he thinks, for 
somehow her adoration acts upon him as might the 
evil charrr of a serpent, for Doctor Jack is an hon- 
orable man, deeply in love with his wife. 

He has only stopped here a minute or so to recover 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVEF 65 

breath after his rapid walk, and calm himself ere 
appearing before Avis. 

Fate sometimes manipulates things in a queer 
way. Even this thirty seconds, during which he 
stands there, are destined to be marked by an event. 
It would seem as though he has been allowed to 
reach the scene in order to be a witness of the brav- 
ery of the woman he calls his wife. 

As he glances up again toward the point where, 
as he well knows, the windows of his rooms are sit- 
uated, Doctor Jack receives a start. Not more than 
fifteen feet of space lies between, and against the 
background of sky he sees a protuberance fastened 
to the face of the building. 

While Jack gazes, spell-bound, it moves, and he 
makes out beyond all question the figure of a man. 
This is a strange place for one to cling to like a 
monkey. No man would be in such a position un- 
less he has evil intentions. It fiashes through the 
mind of the American that some enemy seeks to do 
him harm. He is surrounded by so many who wish 
him ill that it is folly attempting to bother his head 
concerning the identity of this fellow. 

Of course, he may be an ordinary thief, for the 
city has more than its usual quota of this species. 
Doctor Jack ponders concerning his best move, and 
handles his revolver with the air of a man who feels 
half impelled to use it, yet hesitates because he 
hates to shed the blood of a human being, however 
much the other may deserve it. 

And while he thus deliberates the matter is taken 
out of his hands. Some one is concerned in the 
game whom he has forgotten to figure on — Avis. 

The figure clinging to the wall makes another 
movement. Evidently he has stopped to rest upon a 


66 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE. 


ledge, or else because Jack’s footsteps on the pave- 
ment alarmed him; but if this latter is the case he 
has bravely overcome his fear, since his movement 
is certainly upward. 

By this time the fellow has his hands upon the 
window-sill. What if Avis sleeps — the watcher 
smiles grimly with the satisfaction he feels at being 
on hand — surely a little cherub aloft must be watch- 
ing over his fortunes. 

It is time something was done, and Jack slowly 
raises his hand to wing the dark mass thus outlined 
against the sky, to bring him down to the pavement 
a crippled wretch, howling with agony and fear. 

At this moment occurs the event not down on the 
bills. Doctor Jack plainly hears the swish of liquid 
forces, and sees something shoot from the window. 
A few arops even splash upon his face and feel like 
flashes of fire, such is the heat contained in them. 

As for the rogue who clings to the wall, and re- 
ceives the full benefit of the fiery deluge, he gives 
one wild shriek of anguish. His hands release their 
clutch upon the window-sill above and down he 
comes in a heap. 

Some good fortune causes him to drop in a sitting 
posture, and this, although doubtless painful, saves 
him from a fractured limb. Perhaps he fears a sec- 
ond deluge of hot water, or it may be his bums 
have set him wild. At any rate, it is ludicrous to 
see the way in which the demoralized chap scram- 
bles to his feet and rushes down the calle, groaning, 
and grinding out Chilian curses with a proficiency 
doubtless acquired in the army. 

A few people come running up and out of the 
hotel to see what is the matter, for although scenes 
of violence are frequent in the streets, they never 


WHAT CAME DOWN FROM ABOVE. 


67 


fail to attract attention. A cock-fight or battle of 
the bulls has always been a drawing card in Chili, 
though of late the laws are becoming more severe 
in this regard, and a live Yankee circus pleases the 
populace about as well. They are fast becoming 
educated along the republic of the Andes. 

Nothing is to be seen, save a wet spot on the 
pavement, and only through speculation can they 
reach the truth. Doctor Jack does not linger, but a 
minute later gives the peculiar rap on his door which 
Avis recognizes, and it proves an “open sesame,” 
admitting him to the sacred precincts beyond. 

While Avis relocks and barricades the door her 
liege lord gropes for a chair, and, throwing himself 
into its depths, laughs as though he would take a 
fit. 

“Well, you seem amused. Suppose you share the 
subject?” she says, sitting on the arm of the chair 
and stroking Doctor Jack’s curly hair. 

“Ye gods! I shall never forget how that fellow 
came down, floundering like a great bear. You 
brave little woman, I declare ” 

“Oh, that’s it! Well, I meant he should go, and 
gave him the benefit of the whole pan of hot water 
heated on our little oil stove here,” she remarks, 
composedly, as though such a feat were an every- 
day occurrence. “And now. Jack, if you can con- 
trol your laughter, tell me what you have seen and 
done since you left here.” 


68 


LABBY ASSUMES THE BOLE OF A DON JUAN 


CHAPTER IX. 

LARRY ASSUMES THE ROLE OF A DON JUAN. 

The balance of this singular night in Valparaiso 
passes without adventure. Doctor Jack, taking 
warning from what has already occurred, does not 
neglect the proper precautions for safety, and while 
the door is secured, no one could possibly enter at 
the window, left open for air, without disturbing his 
slumbers, and to arouse a man of his caliber would 
be a poor piece of business for the daring intruder, 
whose reception must partake of a more serious 
nature than a sudden hot water shower-bath. 

So the day comes, that fateful October day that 
almost precipitates a bloody war between the 
valiant little South American free country and the 
greatest republic the world has ever seen. 

It opens auspiciously for Jack. 

As he comes down stairs he is accosted by a man 
who has just entered Valparaiso’s chief caravan- 
sary — a man upon whom the dust of travel rests, 
and who has undoubtedly ridden far and hard. 

At sight of him Doctor Jack receives a shock, for 
although the man’s face is soiled with dust and per- 
spiration, he recognizes him. 

“Kirke Smith!” bursts from his lips. 

The man holds out his hand, which is seized by 
Doctor Jack and heartily squeezed. Then the two 
step aside to a quiet corner where they may talk 
without being overheard, for already several Chili- 
ans watch them with interest. 


LABRY ASSUMES THE BOLE OF A DON JUAN 


69 


“You are twelve hours ahead, Kirke. What am I 
to believe, good or bad news?” is the first thing 
Jack Evans asks. 

“Both,” returns the Texan rider, whose equal on 
a horse it would be hard to find. 

Doctor Jack preserves his wonderful calmness, 
although his whole fortune is at stake. The man’s 
nerve is simply astonishing, and it has won him 
more than one battle in the past. 

“ Explain what you mean, my dear fellow. Have 
you brought it with you?” 

“Yes; lost it on the way and recovered it again. 
I’ve ridden like Satan, Jack, and met with some ad- 
ventures that will do to amuse you another time.” 

“Quite right— they’ll keep. In ow, where is the — 
package you were to fetch?” 

“ Concealed outside the city. I dared not bring it 
in until I had seen you.” 

Doctor Jack heaves a deep sigh of relief. 

“That much is safe, then. Once we get it on board 
the steamer all will be well.” 

“When do you sail?” 

“ In the morning, and you also, Kirke, my boy. 
Don’t think I mean to lose sight of you so easily. 
Besides, your presence may be needed to confirm 
the statements in New York.” 

“Are you bound there?” with eager interest. 

“Possibly. I have received news in the last ten 
hours that makes me alter my plans. Your coming, 
with words of cheer, brightens the skies, which 
were getting very dark above. I am surrounded by 
enemies here, and can hardly turn without knock- 
ing the elbow of a man who hopes to pick a quarrel.” 

The other gives a low whistle of surprise, but his 
face expresses no alarm. Kirke Smith has been in 


70 LARRY ASSUMES TEE ROLE OF A DON JUAN. 

some of the most desperate situations ever faced by 
a human being, and no one ever knew him to flinch. 

Up comes Larry at this juncture, and is delighted 
to see the man for whom Jack has been waiting, on 
the ground. 

His idea is that they can go on board the steamer 
at once, but is met by the reply that, however profit- 
able such a move might be, it is not to be thought 
of until evening comes. 

A boat will be engaged and kept in waiting at a 
certain point most convenient, and when they have 
secured that which Kirke Smith dares not bring 
into Valparaiso in broad daylight, a short pull will 
bring them to the steamer. 

All they must avoid will be the Argus eyes of the 
enemies whom Jack and his trusted agent have thus 
far baffled, and it may be set down as certain that 
these men will be constantly on the alert. 

The hard rider who comes from the nitrate region 
of Chili goes to brush up a little, and then appears 
ready for breakfast. Avis joins them, and in low 
tones they converse. Kirke has much of dramatic 
interest to tell, and holds them spell-bound while he 
relates his adventures. 

To not a soul, however, does he confide the secret 
of where he has hidden that treasure which he has 
carried so far, and defended as only a brave man 
could. Who can tell what hostile ears may not be 
bent to catch his words? The secret must only be 
whispered in the solitude of privacy, if spoken at 
all. 

Larry has something on his mind — this fact Doc- 
tor Jack notices, and it causes him to watch the 
little man curiously. Perhaps he has fallen in love 
with the beautiful senorita to whom Doctor Jack 


LABBY ASSUMES TEE BOLE OF A DON JUAN. 71 

owed his trouble on the preceding night. As this 
thought flashes through his mind it troubles him, 
since the dude can be as stubborn as a mule once his 
mind is made up, and it is hoped he will sail when 
they do. 

So J ack determines to put him on the rack. Larry 
knows something — that is evident — and his tongue 
once limbered presently discourses upon the subject 
uppermost in his thoughts. 

“I have weceived a lettah this a. m. — a communi- 
cation of immense importance, dear boy. You 
wemember the lovely chawmer upon whose shoulder 
your head weclined last night. Well, she’s given 
you up, Jack,” with a leer. 

“Glad to hear it,” says that worthy, heartily. 

“ She’s after new game. Another sun has risen 
above the horizon, and, by Jove ! this one isn’t mort- 
gaged, either,” pulling at the shadowy fringe that 
adorns his cheeks. 

“Am I to understand it is you, Larry?” 

The small man puffs out his chest until he resem- 
bles a pouter pigeon. 

“I’m the victim of her second passion — a case of 
love at flrst sight. I fancied that she twembled last 
night when I looked at her — a powerful sight of 
magnetism in that glance, dear boy,” and he ac- 
companies his words with a laugh that puzzles the 
doctor. 

“And she wrote you?” he asks, suspiciously. 

“Wead it yourself, old chappie — clean case of 
goneness from the start — poor girl.” 

There are only a few lines: 

“The Senorita Marilla de los Vegos’ compliments 
to Senor Lawrence Kennedy, hoping he will call 


72 LAHRY ASSUMES THE ROLE OF A DON JUAN, 

again to-day, when she may receive him in a more 
hospitable manner than last night.” 

Doctor Jack sneers at the wording of the note. 
To him it is as plain as the nose on Larry’s face, or 
the eye-glasses he loves to sport. The trouble may 
be in explaining it. Larry has a bump of conceit 
out of all proportion to his size. These small people 
are generally inclined to be very important, and 
can strut about better than six-footers. 

“I’m afraid there’s a trap back of this, Larry. 
She may have conceived a sudden fancy for you, 
my boy, granted, but hate is stronger than love any 
day in ruling the heart, and she will use you to 
further her plans.’' 

Larry shuts one eye and looks as wise as an owl 
while ogling his companion. 

“Will she. Jack? My dear boy, you don’t weally 
know me. I have made women a life study — the 
deah cweatures may deceive others, but in Larry 
Kennedy they have a master. Yes, I shall do my- 
self the honor of calling upon this chawming senor- 
ita— she smiled at me last night”— Jack almost takes 
a fit in suppressing his laughter as he recollects the 
awful look on Marilla’ s face, as she made that 
wicked jab with her dagger, and the agility with 
which Senor Larry sprang aside— “she will advance 
another step and allow n;e to kiss her hand to-day 
— the darling.” 

“And meanwhile manage to worm your secrets 
out. Ah, Larry, take care!” uneasily, for much is 
involved. 

“Jack, you’ve seen me in tight places. I’m no 
fool, if some people will imagine it. I shall have a 
clevah story arranged that will deceive the angelic 
cweature. Ti;ust me.” 


LABBY ASSUMES THE BOLE OF A DON JUAN 


73 


And Jack, remembering the past, feels that for 
him to doubt the abilities of this queer little genius 
is an insult — so he squeezes his hand. 

‘‘Your pardon, my boy. I might have known you 
were too sensible to be easily deceived, and that 
what you attempted would be with an eye to our suc- 
cess.” 

“That’s it. Jack. I believe I can turn the tables 
on the senorita. While I appear to be wax-work in 
her hands, she will be dwopping hints that may 
give us a big pull. So au revoir, comrade, until we 
meet again.” 

“Be merciful, Larry. Don’t lacerate the poor 
girl’s feelings too dreadfully. Think of the pangs of 
unrequited affection — of a broken heart bowed 
down with grief, of ” 

“ Ah ! there, quit it, doctor. Hang it, do you take 
me for a dreadful Don Juan?” and Larry rushes 
away with a grin on his monkey face — to meet the 
divine senorita and engage in a little game of de- 
ception where the keenest of wit will come out 
ahead. 

Nor does Doctor Jack see him again for some 
hours. Indeed, the day is almost spent when Larry 
once more shows up. 

During the course of the hours spent together. 
Jack and Kirke Smith have come to a good under- 
standing connected with certain matters, and their 
plans are well arranged for the near future, though 
of course subject to change in case of necessity. 

Doctor Jack has managed to engage quarters on 
the steamer that sails north at dawn of the next 
day, and this has been done without visiting the 
vessel. A sailor whom he knows, belonging to the 


74 LARRY ASSUMES THE ROLE OF A DON JUAN. 

ship Keneenaw, anchored near the steamer in the 
harbor, agrees to do the business for him. 

As to the boat that is to wait for them at a certain 
point near the Mole, Kirke Smith looks out for this. 
Perhaps he is not watched. At any rate, he finds a 
man whom he buys body and soul — this fellow, hav- 
ing received such a good advance payment with 
rich promises for the future, is ready to do anything 
he is told. If some inquisitive natives waylay him 
later on with questions concerning his coming move- 
ments, and his business with the Texan, he will have 
a cock-and-bull story arranged to satisfy them, and 
throw them off the trail. 

Thus Doctor Jack is fairly well satisfied with the 
way things are going, though a little anxious that 
it should be over, when he meets Larry again ; the 
latter is getting out of a cab at the door of the hotel 
and presents a ridiculous appearance — his clothing 
dusty, his hat banged in, his face scratched, and the 
empty rim of a once glorious eye-glass screwed into 
the cavity of his left optic — and yet above all the 
same old strut — which causes a groan, however — 
the familiar smirk, and Larry, not quite so chipper, 
but Larry as of yore, trips up to the astounded doc- 
tor. 

“ Good Heaven ! my dear boy, have you been in 
a threshing machne, or engaged in a prize-fight?” 
gasps Jack Evans, amazed at the scarecrow thus 
presented. 

“ Neither, deah boy,” says Larry, with a ghastly 
grin, “ I’ve been playing the wole of Lothario — mak- 
ing love to the senorita, and, by Jove ! made a glori- 
ous success, as you can believe.” 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY. 


75 


CHAPTER X. 

YANKEE BLUE- JACKETS AT BAY. 

As Doctor Jack surveys Cousin Larry from head 
to foot, he makes a mental calculation that if such 
a condition is significant of success Heaven help 
the man who fails, for the dude is, indeed, an ob- 
ject for commiseration. 

At the same time he catches an inflection under 
the tone of the other that tells him Larry has not 
been quite such a fool as outward circumstances 
would indicate, though he has undoubtedly been 
overwhelmed by misfortune. 

An explanation is in order. 

Larry is quite ready to give it in his own way, 
and the little man can, when he pleases, be quite 
dramatic. There is more to him than one would im- 
agine at first glance. 

It seems that he did not venture to call upon the 
senorita until the afternoon, when, rigged out in 
what he deemed his most killing suit, with per- 
fumed handkerchief and every hair on his head in 
place, this little dandy of Gotham presented him- 
self at the very gate, which, on the previous night, 
when in company with Avis, bent on discovering 
and rescuing her husband, he had declared his abil- 
ity to demolish. 

A ring with the bell brought a servant, and he 
was admitted to the mansion where the senorita 
awaited him. 

She seemed dreadfully struck with his appearance, 
rather awed, Larry vowed, and Doctor Jack could 


76 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY. 


easily believe it, since the dude in full dress was 
enough to take any one’s breath away. 

They chatted pleasantly, the senorita sang numer- 
ous songs, and with such warmth that Larry was in 
the seventh heaven of delight. He could not resist 
declaring his love for this beautiful creature, and 
on his knees proclaimed it. 

This produced a change ; the Chilian beauty de- 
manded that if he adored her he must prove the 
depth of his affection by renouncing the friendship 
of Doctor Jack and his wife and coming under her 
banner, when he would be permitted to worship — 
at a distance. 

Larry’s eyes were opened, and he saw the snare 
spread for his feet. It was not a part of his game to 
be tripped up. If given time he might have pre- 
tended to acquiesce, in order to learn something of 
the plans of the rich Chilian beauty, but as he 
and his friends expected to sail in the morning this 
would not be profitable. 

When it became evident that he was unwilling to 
obey her request, Marilla descended to threats. She 
found an obstinate little man in Larry Kennedy. 
Nothing could move him, and so another step was 
taken. 

The senorita clapped her hands and two native 
servants appeared, either of whom should have been 
able to have demolished the dude. These the infuri- 
ated woman set upon him much in the manner in 
which she might have urged a pack of hounds after 
game. 

Larry groaned at his foolishness in coming with- 
out arms, but he was not the one to give in without 
a desperate struggle. They found the toughest little 
subject in the dude they had ever tackled. He 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAT. 


77 


slipped from their grasp, dealt them sudden blows, 
scratched like a tiger cat, shrieked in their ears, 
and gave them all the fight they wanted, for they 
were house-servants and not soldiers used to battle. 

Affairs were growing rather serious for Larry 
after a time, and he began to fear he would be 
killed, as the senorita in fury was shrieking to her 
men to finish him, when by rare good luck his eyes 
fell upon his heavy cane, which he had laid aside in 
order to better make love to the beauty. 

Upon this he pounced with the joy a shipwrecked 
mariner would feel should land heave in sight. 
New energy seemed given him, and he beat the two 
cowardly servants until they howled for meroy and 
fied. 

Then Larry bowed to the senorita, who no longer 
called for his destruction, but seemed awed by his 
dilapidated appearance, kissed his fingers to her, 
apologized for kicking up such a circus in her 
house, hoped they would meet again, and retired 
from the scene, leaving her speculating as to what 
an ordinary New Yorker might be capable of doing 
when a little whipper-snapper could kick up such a 
confusion. 

This is Larry’s story, though of course given in 
his own way, and with other embellishments. 

Probably he has learned a lesson, and will not be 
in a hurry to again make love to a Chilian beauty. 
Doctor Jack chuckles as this wretched specimen 
leaves him to rehabilitate his form in other gar- 
ments, and rub some vaseline upon the scratches on 
his face. 

Upon the whole Larry has done well, and picked 
up several little points of interest, at the expense of 
bis best suit, which is ruined. That seems to grieve 


78 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY, 


him more than any soreness of body, for he has be- 
lieved himself almost invincible in that checkered 
triumph of the tailor’s art. 

The adventure proves one thing — Marilla has not 
given up her game, because foiled on the occasion 
when she made such a bold move. Doctor Jack 
would be uneasy on this score only for the fact that 
they are to leave Valparaiso in a few hours. 

He notices a spirit of ugly unrest abroad. More 
than one little affair has taken place on this after- 
noon between Chilian sailors and those belonging to 
American vessels, and it is evident that there is bad 
blood between them. 

Various things cause this. The Chilians have a 
foolish notion that the powers at Washington 
favored the Balmaceda government. The seizure of 
the Itata has had much to do with inflaming their 
minds, and probably the fact of their recent victory 
causes them to feel that they can insult the United 
States with impunity. 

“There’s trouble brewing,” says Doctor Jack, as 
he notes these things, and his experience has been 
extended enough to make him a good judge. 

He has an appointment at a certain hour with 
Kirke Smith, who has been absent from the city 
during the afternoon. Larry has engaged to con- 
duct Avis to the spot where they rendezvous. 
Trunks have been secretly smuggled from the fonda 
by a rear door and sent on board the steamer. They 
flatter themselves that this has been done without 
the knowledge of hostile forces, and perhaps it may 
be so. 

Doctor Jack consults his watch. 

“Time I started,” he says, and runs up stairs to 
have a few last words with Avis. Larry already 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY, 


79 


knows the part he is to play, and the doctor has 
such confidence in the little man that he does not 
think it worth while to see him again. 

Once more Doctor Jack passes through the streets 
of Valparaiso, now crowded as though on a holiday. 
The events of the next few hours will prove whether 
fortune means to smile on him or not. Doctor Jack 
believes success comes to him who deserves it. He 
has little reliance on luck, though ready to accept 
any chance that wanders his way. 

Noticing the unruly element in the crowd that 
jostles along the street, he congratulates himself in 
the wisdom that has led him to don certain gar- 
ments much in vogue among Chilians at this time, 
which, with his sunburned face and the wide brim- 
med hat he wears, allows him to pass for one of the 
citizens of Valparaiso. 

This fact serves him well later on, and even now 
he finds progress made much easier on account 
of it. 

Evening is drawing near, when Doctor Jack, 
drawn by some singular fate passes down the Calls 
des Arsenal, and comes face to face with Colonel 
Leon Garcia. Behold, what a small thing kindleth ' 
a great fire! The sarcastic smile on Jack’s face as 
he remembers the ridiculous figure this proud Chil- 
ian officer cut on a recent occasion makes the blood 
boil in the other’s veins.. He sees a chance to make 
trouble, for as bad luck will have it some of his 
henchmen happen to be near by. These fellows 
catch his looks, and, boiling over with the desire to 
make trouble, follow Doctor Jack. 

Just below, a gang of Yankee sailors emerge from 
a cafe. They are not drunk, but inclined to be 
noisy, as sailors on shore-leave may always be ex- 


80 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY. 


pocted to prove, singing snatches of songs, joking, 
and laughing. 

Again hard luck. A squad of Chilian sailors from 
the war vessels are passing by, perhaps under the 
influence of liquor. During the afternoon a number 
of rows have begun that were only quelled by the 
efforts of officers belonging to the Baltimore. Thus 
there is bad blood between the men ; the hour is ripe 
for a melee, and it only needs a spark to start it going. 

Doctor Jack is made aware of the fact that he is 
an object of solicitude to numerous fellow-beings 
when some one jostles him rudely. As he turns to 
expostulate another bravo bangs into him roughly 
on the other side. 

“Aha! that’s the game, is it?” gasps the Yankee, 
for the second blow has almost taken his breath 
away. 

Quick to act, the American throws out his hand, 
and clutches hold of the man who has just given 
him such a vicious whack with his elbow. He 
makes one muscular effort — the fellow goes spinning 
after his companion, and overtakes him with such 
force that both drop to the pavement together di- 
rectly in the midst of the sailors who have at this 
moment come together. 

One of the Chilians is struck by the heels of the 
last man who goes down, in such a fashion that he 
seems to imagine he has received a kick. He turns 
with a roar, finds an American sailor close beside 
him, and, as the worst indignity that comes to him, 
expectorates in the face of the Yankee, who prompt- 
ly knocks him down with as clean a blow as ever 
flew from the shoulder. 

That starts the fracas, the echoes of which will 
ring around the world. 


YANKEE BLUKJACKET8 AT BAY. 


81 


It has been brooding all day, just as though a 
conspiracy has been formed among the lower ele- 
ments in Valparaiso to wipe out the prejudice un- 
doubtedly existing against the blue-jackets of the 
United States Navy. 

The quiet street immediately seems to be an off 
shoot of Bedlam — from all quarters men can be seen 
rushing to the spot. It passes from mouth to mouth 
“the Yankee sailors have been attacked,” and the 
enthusiasm with which hundreds rush to the scene 
proves how ready they are to join in the carnival of 
mischief. 

Doctor Jack thus finds himself in the midst of a 
howling, fighting mob, against his will, it is true ; 
but all has happened so quickly that he cannot 
avoid the consequences unless he turns and runs, 
which is hardly according to his principles. 

Of course, he is fairly able to look out for Number 
One under such circumstances. He has seen so 
much of adventure during the past few years that 
there is nothing new to him in finding around him 
angry men striking right and left. 

An admirable boxer, he can deliver sledge-ham- 
mer blows, and at the same time, through his agility, 
escape punishment. Those who run up against him 
have immediate occasion for regret. 

The Yankee sailors endeavor to keep in a bunch. 
They realize that their only safety lies in this sys- 
tem of tactics, and hence whenever they come upon 
other detachments of fellow-tars from the Baltimore 
they join forces. 

It is incredible what a mob gathers— the streets 
become impassable— thousands crowd the scene, 
and the air is full of shouts and curses. One can 
believe the Americans will be torn limb from limb 


82 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY. 


if they fall into the hands of these enraged demons. 

They are separated again and again. Their ut- 
most endeavors to keep in a bunch are frustrated 
by the very number of the mob, which surges be- 
tween them. Many wounds have been received; 
the cowardly nature of the Chilian rioters is shown 
in the fact that every stab is in the back. The cow- 
ards, numerically strong, dare not face the Yankee 
fists, but ply their blades at their backs. 

Unfortunately, relying upon the assurance re- 
ceived from the officials that American sailors 
would be protected from any outrage from the 
rough elements that crowd the city, Captain Schley 
had the sailors leave even their knives on board ere 
giving shore-leave; but for this the brave blue- 
jackets would have rendered a better account of 
themselves. 

For a quarter of an hour the fight rages. Here 
and there a side mob chases some unlucky tar sep- 
arated from his fellows, bent upon doing murder. 
There is no question of right or wrong involved now 
— it is war to the knife. All the fierce hatred en- 
gendered in Chilian hearts rises to the surface, and 
they hunt these Yankee sailors with the eagerness 
that marks the sportsman when in pursuit of game. 

Doctor Jack has been very much annoyed to find 
himself thus in the midst of what he at first judges 
to be a drunken brawl on a large scale. 

Then it dawns upon his mind that there is some- 
thing even more serious in the disturbance, and that 
a riot has opened which will cost many lives. It 
may even extend to a naval battle in the harbor. 
Who can tell? 

He has business in view, and desires to get out of 
this disgraceful affair as speedily as possible ; but 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY. 


83 


the elements surrounding him prevent even a man 
of his determined character from doing what he 
pleases. 

With each passing minute the situation becomes 
more and more desperate. The Baltimore’s men are 
pushing in the direction of the landing, knowing 
their only chance of escaping complete annihilation 
is in getting aboard. 

Some officers have appeared upon the scene. They 
can do nothing to quell the riot, even when assisted 
by certain Chilian officers who see the terrible re- 
sults of this conflict, which may bring down upon 
Chili the vengeance of an outraged government at 
Washington. 

The only way of bringing the riot to an end is to 
get the Yankee sailors aboard, and to this purpose 
all set themselves. 

In the midst of the intense confusion, when the 
streets for squares around are fllled with howling 
Chilians, eager for the blood of the Yankee blue- 
jackets, Doctor Jack sees a chance to give them the 
slip. 

He improves it, anxious to be about his own busi- 
ness. What does it matter to him just now that the 
Chilian mob has set upon those who wear the garb 
of the United States Navy, and that their act seems 
to be winked at by the police. Surely Uncle Sam is 
powerful enough to protect his own, or if too late 
for that to terribly avenge. 

While Doctor Jack, with his hat pulled low over 
his face, makes his way through the crowd, occa- 
sionally shouting some Spanish word or phrase to 
make those around believe he is in sympathy with 
their actions, he comes upon another scene. 

The police advance up the calle slowly. It has 


84 


YANKEE BLVE-JACKET8 AT BAY. 


actually taken them half an hour to get over a few 
squares. As the whole city is filled with the raging 
tumult there is no excuse for this tardiness, except 
intentional delay. 

Here a few Yankee sailors have been caught sep- 
arated from their companions, and beaten with 
cudgels, stabbed with knives, and treated in a dast- 
ardly manner, considering the fact that they are 
all unarmed. Had it been otherwise Valparaiso’s 
streets would have run red with blood, for these 
Americans must have done terrible execution in the 
crowd, armed for business. Captain Schley knew 
what he was doing when he caused his men to leave 
all arms aboard, though one sometimes wishes it 
might have been otherwise when the character of 
the mob is taken into consideration. 

One of these sailors has been struck down, and 
his comrades seem to be dragging him in the direc- 
tion of a drug store, while sticks and stones are 
rained upon them, people in the houses even taking 
cruel delight in deluging them with dirt}^ water. 
Shots are heard, and Doctor Jack catches the whistle 
of bullets. The police have opened fire, but strange 
to say their lead seems to be thrown more in the 
direction of the desperate sailors than into the in- 
furiated mob that so relentlessly pursues them with 
the pertinacity of wolves chasing their quarry. 

Even as he looks Doctor Jack sees the men sud- 
denly drop Riggin, the boatswain’s mate, whom 
they were carrying off— a bullet from the advancing 
police has ended his life. The scene beggars de- 
scription. Gradually the Yankee sailors are en- 
abled to fight their way to the Mole, and in the 
gathering darkness enter their boats, which put out 
from the shore, followed by loud jeers and a volley 


YANKEE BLUE-JACKETS AT BAY, 


86 


of stones, heading for the cruiser Baltimore, which, 
with steam up and guns ready for an emergency, 
has moved in closer to pick up the seamen who 
serve under the insulted flag of the great republic. 


86 


ALL IN A FOG. 


CHAPTER XI. 

ALL IN A FOG. 

During the confusion that fills every calle adjoin- 
ing that in which these desperate scenes are being 
enacted, Doctor Jack manages to escape the scru- 
tiny of those enemies who have followed him with 
such pertinacity. 

He believes the Yankee sailors will reach the 
Mole, and their vessel — the presence of several naval 
officers gives this idea strength. Probably the Chil- 
ian seaport will be rather an unhealthy place for 
Americans in the near future, thanks to the cun- 
ning of Englishmen who fear lest their hold upon 
the republic may be endangered by the new reci- 
procity policy of the United States, and are ready 
to encourage the spirit of hostility that seems to be 
growing up between the two countries. 

The farther he leaves the scene of riot and excite- 
ment behind, the better Jack is pleased. He has 
looked upon numerous affairs, but never one that 
filled him more with disgust and anger than when 
this great mob, armed with clubs, and knives, and 
stones, beset the defenseless Yankee sailors in the 
streets of the Chilian city. He would have given 
five years of his life to bring a regiment of New 
York State troops on the scene just then. 

His business takes him to another part of the city. 
Fortunately it is quiet here. He does not sigh for 
the excitement that comes in the train of war. 
Only when forced into it does this man show a 


ALL IN A FOG. 


87 


mailed hand, and who would not fight when 
brought to bay. 

Kirke Smith has not yet arrived, for when Jack 
reaches the spot on the outskirts of the city where 
he has agreed to meet the Texan hard rider that 
worthy is only conspicuous by his absence. It is to 
be sincerely hoped that nothing of a serious nature 
has overtaken the messenger. 

Of course. Jack feels somewhat wrought up over 
the matter. For once he admits that he is a trifle 
nervous, as much depends upon the arrival of Kirke 
with what he carries. So he counts the minutes and 
speculates, as a wise man may, upon what his 
course should be in case of disappointment. 

Larry will probably carry out his share of the 
programme, and must wait at the rendezvous. Doc- 
tor Jack wishes he had sent Avis aboard the 
steamer. Then she would be safe at least, whereas 
now there must always be an element of uncer- 
tainty about it. 

He remembers the man who longs to wed the 
widow of Doctor Jack — remembers him with a 
smile of contempt, and yet an uneasy feeling. Lord 
Kackett Plympton is not a man to be sneered at, 
and in his character of a cultivated rascal may do 
an immense amount of mischief. 

Still Kirke Smith fails to arrive, and the doctor 
strains his eyes looking down the calle along which 
he must naturally come. This delay can have but 
one meaning — the messenger has been followed by 
a spy more shrewd than himself, who has waylaid 
him on the road back, waiting for the coup de grace 
until he has in his possession the coveted package 
that seems of such value to the American. 

Jack moves down in that direction, hoping to 


88 


ALL IN A FOG, 


meet the tardy messenger. Here and there he 
pauses, for upon the hills back of the city some of 
the aristocrats live; these very hills that so re- 
cently bellowed forth the reverberation of cannon, 
as the Congressional Army besieged that of the Dic- 
tator, Balmaceda. 

They frown upon him now, outlined against the 
heavens, but strain his eyes as he will there seems 
to be no sign of Kirke. 

Again he walks back to the rendezvous. A dark 
figure is standing there, and sudden hope springs 
into his heart that it may be Kirke. To his disap- 
pointment it turns out otherwise, and as he glances 
sharply at the party he sees a native, who looks 
curiously at him. 

“Senor, may I ask your name?” says this worthy. 

“Doctor Jack Evans,” promptly, for he knows no 
reason that he should withhold it. 

“ Cospita ! it is well, senor.” 

“You looked for me here?” surprised. 

“Si, senor, he told me this place.” 

“He — ah, at last — you mean Kirke Smith.” 

“ I mean the gentleman who gave me a handful of 
reals, and who said you would do likewise when 
you read it.” 

As he speaks he hands Jack a piece of paper, 
which the other eagerly seizes. At least it relieves 
the awful suspense. He will know what has become 
of Kirke. 

The darkness prevents him from seeing what is 
on the paper, but Jack’s shrewdness is capable of 
surmounting such a barrier, and a match soon re- 
lieves the dilemma. 

By the aid of this light he scans the paper, evi- 
dently a scrap or page torn from a note-book, What 


ALL IN A FOG. 


89 


he reads is rather ambiguous, but it is a foothold 
upon which he may climb higher. He recognizes 
the “style” of his Texan there, just as though the 
other stood before him, and this is what he reads: 

“ I need help— played the fool for once and lost 
my grip. Trust this man as far as you dare— but 
come. It is still safe, but in danger. Make him 
shgw you the way. All clear later.” 

“ H’m ! all a fog now, at any rate. What under 
the sun has happened to Kirke?” 

Puzzled he turns to interrogate the man who 
brought the message, but can obtain little satisfac- 
tion. The fellow would evidently like to receive his 
pay and be gone, for it is dangerous having any in- 
tercourse with Americans at present. Doctor Jack 
has too long a head to permit this. He withholds 
the pay until what he seeks has been accomplished. 

So, rather against his will, the man is forced to 
turn back and lead the American to the place where 
he received the note. 

Jack keeps a bright lookout for squalls. He has 
not fully made up his mind as yet whether this fel- 
low can be trusted, and will be governed a good 
deal by circumstances. At the same time he does 
not sleep on the way, and his hand keeps in touch 
with the weapon he carries. 

Whatever may have happened to Kirke, it is to 
be hoped the delay will be of short duration. Jack 
is thinking of his wife, and the uneasiness she must 
feel at his absence. 

The Chilian guide stops. Not a word is spoken, 
but Doctor Jack knows they have arrived at their 
destination. He bends forward to whisper words in 
the other’s ear, and his manner is that of a man 
having authority. 


90 


ALL IN A FOO. 


“Is this the place?” 

“Si, senor,” comes the muffled reply. 

“Where did you see him?” 

“ N otice this high wall, senor — here is a grating 
in it — once the Sisters used to live beyond and walk 
in the garden, but it has been a private park for 
some time. An English senor bought it.” 

“ Ah ! yes, and you saw this man who gave you 
the reals and the note ” 

“Through the grating, senor, just as darkness 
was creeping over the hills.” 

“That is enough.” 

A handful of silver goes into the pocket of the 
eager Chilian. 

“You can go, now.” 

He vanishes in the surrounding gloom like an evil 
spirit, and Doctor Jack is left face to face with a 
dilemma and a high stone wall. This must be 
scaled. If Kirke Smith is on the other side a pris- 
oner, he must be given assistance. Jack confesses 
that the situation looks very odd to him. He finds it 
hard to believe that the Texan whirlwind could be 
caged in this way, and yet positive evidence has 
been given that this is so. 

Speculation may do for another time. Just at 
present he needs action. His first move is to run 
his hand over the wall, and find out the nature of 
the material composing it. 

After that he walks along to discover some method 
of scaling it. The fact that an English senor now 
owns the place is pregnant with great significance 
in his eyes — it means that the man who hates him, 
and who has vowed to wed his widow, is the pro- 
prietor. 

As he gropes along, he makes a discovery that 


ALL IN A FOG. 


91 


brings him to a halt. At one point a tree grows 
near the wall — rather a small one, it is true, but 
quite large enough to give him hope. This he pro- 
ceeds to ascend, and in five minutes crouches on 
top of the wall. 

To lower himself is the next task. It would be 
easy enough if Doctor Jack was in the habit of 
carrying a rope upon his person. Unfortunately 
this is foreign to his principles, and he must bridge 
over the difiiculty without such friendly support. 

Crawliug along the top of the wall he comes at 
length to a building that frowns upon him with a 
severe aspect, a house that looks more like a prison 
than a dwelling. This blocks his farther passage, 
but it may open a possible way for him to descend. 

After a short investigation he is ready to make a 
move, and swings himself from the wall to a win- 
dow which has a deep embrasure, and iron rods 
across its face as though it marks a jail. 

From this he is enabled to reach another point 
below. Thus the agile American descends step by 
step until he can finally reach the ground by drop- 
ping. 

Thus far he cannot complain. If the balance of 
the work is as easily accomplished they will be on 
their way before long. But where is Kirke— can it 
be possible the Chilian has deceived him— that this 
is not the place after all where the other gave him 
the note? He has not a very high opinion of the 
class to which his informant belongs. There may 
be some deep motive that would infiuence the man 
to deceive him. 

Doctor Jack remembers that in olden times he 
and Kirke used to have a code of signals. Perhaps 
the Texan might remember them now. He utters a 


92 


ALL IN A FOG, 


little flute-like call, which one might easily believe 
proceeded from some bird in among the branches 
of a tree. 

Eagerly he listens ; from the city comes the vari- 
ous noises that are natural — a Babel of sounds, for 
Valparaiso has been doubly aroused by the exciting 
events of the last hour, and may be compared to a 
hive of bees into which some reckless boy has thrust 
a pole. 

Not yet discouraged. Jack moves along, now and 
again repeating his signal. Finally he receives an 
answer. It thrills him through and through. Kirke 
is not far away, and has at last heard his call. 

He again whistles, drawing nearer all the while, 
the answer becoming more distinct. One thing he 
has already made certain of, the sound comes from 
the house itself. He has had a glimpse of a light 
once or twice, though, generally speaking, the build- 
ing is wrapped in darkness. 

Now he is close enough to speak a name, and to 
his delight the answer comes. 

“Where are you, Kirke?” he asks. 

“This way. Jack, old boy,” comes the voice. 

The other moves along, his arms outstretched in 
search of the man who answers his signals. Then 
he strikes something, his hand closes over cold 
fingers, and he receives a terrible shock, for what 
he grasps appears to belong to a dead rather than a 
living being. 


THAT HAND OF ICE. 


93 


CHAPTER XII. 

THAT HAND OF ICE. 

After that one cold shiver Doctor Jack is himself 
again. He still holds the frozen hand that fails to 
return his pressure, holds it while he says in a sub- 
dued yet steady voice : 

“ What does this mean, old man 

“That I have been a fool, doctor. I wish you 
could knock some sense into my stupid head with a 
club — I’d be glad to have you do it only for — that 
package.” 

“It’s safe yet?” anxiously. 

“ I believe so, but every minute that we remain 
here increases the danger of losing it.” 

“What has happened to your arm, man?” 

“Eh? Nothing.” 

“But your fingers are as cold as ice.” 

“Are they? I don’t see how. Great Scott!” and 
the Texan can be heard chuckling in the darkness 
as though dreadfully tickled. 

“Speak on, Kirke.” 

“It must be the dummy’s hand you caught.” 

“Dummy I” casting it from him; “what under the 
sun are you doing with a dummy?” and Jack’s 
voice is full of surprise. 

“You see, they’ve got a lot of wax figures in here, 
probably the noted people of the world. Reckon 
some one used to run a show, and these are his 
stock in trade. Perhaps it’s Julius Caesar I toppled 
over, and his arm hangs out of the window— or it 


94 


TEAT HAND OF ICE. 


may be the great and only Bonaparte— think of the 
honor of shaking hands with such a notable party.” 

Kirke is inclined to be humorous in spite of his 
strange surroundings, and the presence of deadly 
danger. Some men would joke and laugh, if hung 
up by the thumbs. 

“What are you doing in there?” asks Jack. 

“Prisoner of war,” laconically. 

“But when you gave that man the note you were 
at large in the garden ?” 

“Just so. Jack, my boy. They caught me trying 
to escape soon after, and chucked me into this sweet 
hole. I’ve been occupying my time and all my 
matches in interviewing the various worthies con- 
gregated here, and they’re beauties, too, I assure 
you. I shall be haunted all my life by some of their 
faces. Kegular curiosity shop. Just when you came 
up I was busily engaged at the stone mason trade.” 

“What?” 

“You see the wall is very old, and I find the mor- 
tar poor. Already I’ve dislodged one stone, and an- 
other is ready to follow. While I talk I*m working 
like a beaver.” 

“Can I help you?” asks Jack, eagerly. He ad- 
mires just such boldness in conception and execution. 

“ Try to the left of the window. There, you may 
feel the stones move. Ah ! we’ll vamose this ranch 
in double quick time, bet your life.” 

Their united work has a speedy result, and hands 
meet in the opening — hands with a grasp that 
means more than ordinary friendship. 

Doctor Jack is naturally curious to know how all 
this came about, but he asks no further questions. 
There will be plenty of time for those after they 
have made good their escape. 


THAT HAND OF ICE. 


95 


As the prisoner has said, the mortar is poor, and 
offers no resistance, so that they are able to dislodge 
stone after stone with very little effort. 

At length Kirke declares the opening has reached 
a size that will admit of his passage, and with that 
he crawls through. 

“ I tell you I’m glad to be out of that den. It’s 
one of horrors, too, and, if I’d been drinking freely 
of late, I’d believe I had ’em sure,” and the Texan 
draws a great breath of relief. 

Then he cocks his head on one side, and appears 
to be listening intently. 

“I don’t hear ’em, but they’re around.” 

“What’s that?” asks Jack, a suspicion flashing 
across his mind that perhaps his friend has gone 
crazy. 

“Are you armed, old fellow?” 

“Of course. See here.” 

The Texan fondles the weapon eagerly as though 
he were a miser gloating over his gold. 

“I hope they’ll discover us now. I’d be tempted 
to shout and arouse the house, if you only had a 
mate to this for me.” 

“Well, I have, but don’t do anything rash. Ee- 
member we’ve got a great deal to accomplish yet, 
and can’t afford to be foolish.” 

“ On your request I’ll bottle my enthusiasm and 
remain dumb,” replies Kirke, whose spirits have 
gone up three hundred per cent, since he learned 
that he could keep the weapon Jack thrust into his 
hand. 

“Tell me, is it in this place?” asks the doctor, “for 
if so I don’t mean to leave in a hurry.” 

“Outside,” is the quick response. 


96 


THAT HAND OF ICE. 


“Then come with me, and ITl show you how I 
entered.” 

They move along the face of the building in the 
direction, as Jack believes, of the spot where he de- 
scended. It may not be so easy to get out, but where 
there’s a will there’s a way ; and these determined 
men are not the ones to be daunted by obstacles. 

Thus far fortune has favored them, but it now 
frowns. Loud voices are heard in their rear, lights 
are seen, and the barking of a dog indicates that 
the excitement means something connected with 
their flight. 

“The goose is cooked — they’re coming,” says the 
Texan, calmly, and one could almost declare there 
is a ring of pleasure in his voice, as though he an- 
ticipates a picnic in the encounter. 

Indeed, the clamor in their rear has by this time 
reached such proportions that it is positively alarm- 
ing. Men shout and swear, and* new lights flash 
upon the scene, until it even looks as though giant 
fireflies are darting hither and thither through the 
garden. 

“We can defend ourselves, but the time has not 
yet come. Here is an open door. Let’s investigate 
the house.” 

The audacity of this plan pleases Hirke Smith. 
He chuckles over it, even while following Jack into 
the inky hall- way. 

“ Tit for tat. As they go out we enter in. Eureka ! 
Lead on. Doctor Jack,” he mutters, “and I’ll follow 
even to Satan’s land.” 

J ack gropes his way along. It will be a strange 
thing if they cannot find some door or window open- 
ing upon the street, by means of which they may 
escape. 


THAT HAND OF ICE. 


97 


Let the minions of Colonel Garcia and the English 
lord search for them in the garden. Even if the dog 
shows them the hall which the fugitives have 
entered, they will not be much worse off, since they 
can put their backs against the wall and fight. 

Steadily Doctor Jack pushes on— no matter what 
the confusion outside, he will not risk everything by 
too much speed — at the same time he is no laggard. 

The hall ends, but a door is found which opens at 
a touch, and they discover a room in which lights 
abound. It has been occupied by a number of per- 
sons, and is evidently a parlor, for a piano and pic- 
tures can be seen. 

Nor is it destitute of human occupancy now; two 
ladies are seen at a window ; they lean out, and 
very probably look into the garden, where the mad 
search goes merrily on. 

Doctor Jack believes that in one of these ladies 
he sees the senorita who gave him so much trouble 
on the preceding night; but there is no need of veri- 
fying this suspicion. They may slip through the 
room unnoticed. 

He pinches Kirke’s arm to make sure that the 
Texan realizes the gravity of the situation, and then 
puts a finger on his lip to indicate silence. 

After that the two men start to pass through the 
room. There is some floor covering under their feet, 
which helps to conceal the sound of their footsteps. 
Hence, it is not any noise made by them that at- 
tracts attention. 

Just when they are in the middle of the room one 
of the figures in the window turns and the Chilian 
beauty finds herself face to face with Doctor Jack. 
She is taken quite by surprise, and stares, while 


98 


TEAT HAND OF IGE. 


the American, equal to the emergency, makes a 
polite salaam. 

Then he follows Kirke, who has taken the lead at 
this moment, leaving the senorita standing rooted 
to the spot. She will not remain long in this atti- 
tude, but turning to the open casement will endeavor 
to let those below understand that the parties they 
seek are even then in the house. 

Such being the situation, it necessitates more 
speed on their part in order to gain an exit. By de- 
grees Doctor Jack is picking up some ideas regard- 
ing the lay of the land- -which is the front of the 
house, for he believes, yes, he is sure it faces on a 
street at the point where he reached it on the wall. 

A strange flight this is, and in the future they 
will doubtless smile when memory brings it before 
their mental vision. At present it is a serious busi- 
ness, since those who chase them are desperate men 
bent upon visiting their anger on the heads of the 
Americans. 

“This looks like it.” 

As he speaks. Doctor Jack comes to a sudden 
pause in front of a window. 

“It’s barred,” cries Kirke, in dismay, as he notices 
the iron which was doubtless placed there when the 
house was a convent. 

“Bah!” sneers the other — his hands close upon 
one of the irons ; strangely enough they are on the 
inside of the window instead of the usual place for 
such protections. It was not to prevent people from 
breaking in that these were placed there, but to keep 
the inmates from breaking out. 

This man takes a Arm hold, and as he utters that 
one contemptuous exclamation, wrenches the rusty 
bar from its socket and tosses it aside. 


THAT HAND OF IGK 


99 


“Hurrah!” exclaims Kirke. “That’s one.” 

By this time his companion of muscle and sinew 
has grasped a second bar, which he twists from its 
lodging with even. greater ease than the first. 

“Eureka! what can stand up against us? One 
more fixes it, Jack.” 

“Look out, then!” says the other, quietly. 

They can hear a roar of voices in the house, and 
know their enemies have been put upon the right 
trail, either through the dog’s keen nose, or the 
senorita’s outcries. 

Crack ! 

The opening is now complete, and Kirke hastens 
to accept the invitation it offers ; pushes his body 
through, hangs by his hands, and then recklessly 
lets go without more than a guess as to the dis- 
tance that may be between his feet and the ground. 

Nor does Doctor Jack hesitate about following 
the example thus set. He hears sounds below, 
which would indicate that Kirke has fallen among 
a number of enemies, and this being the case he is 
in need of assistance. 

As he falls he finds himself in the midst of strug- 
gling figures. A light is suddenly hung from one of 
the windows, and Jack blesses the hand that thus 
gives him a chance to distinguish friend from foe. 
The way in which he sails in is indicative of his 
spirit. Those heads that meet his knuckles regret 
the contact. His onslaught produces consternation 
among them, and a temporary panic, during which 
the voice of Doctor Jack is heard calling: 

“ Make a run for it, Kirke. Away we go !” 


100 


THE TELL-TALE GLOVE. 


CHAPTER XIII. 

THE TELL-TALE GLOVE. 

It is a wise move on the part of these two com- 
rades to beat a retreat in the face of so numerous a 
body of foes, and the manner in which they conduct 
this proves their ability to take care of themselves. 

The Texan is engaged at the time the call comes, 
but he speedily breaks all attachments and sunders 
the ties that bind, though the parties with whom he 
wrestles endeavor to prevent such a consummation 
by every means. 

When he catches up with Doctor Jack, he finds 
that worthy glancing over his shoulder as if to make 
sure that his comrade follows. 

“We are pursued, of course?” says Jack. 

“Yes, here they come,” returns the other, and 
from the racket that arises it is plain to be seen that 
he speaks the truth. 

They would much rather elude their pursuers than 
have a conflict, but if it comes to such a thing these 
men are not the kind to shirk their duty. 

“Leave it to me,” Kirke has said, and his compan- 
ion is only too ready to do so, for the Texan is the 
one who knows where the packet that seems so im- 
portant to their success is secreted, and perhaps he 
can lead them to it. 

They dash along with the speed of sleuth-hounds 
on a fresh scent, and presently the gratifying news 
is flashed from one to the other, that they leave 
their foes behind. This can be positively ascer- 


THE TELL-TALE GLOVE. 


101 


tained by the gradually diminishing sounds that 
follow them. 

Then Kirke changes his course. In five minutes 
they are heading back toward the quarter from 
whence they came, though by a different route. 

“Getting warm, now. Soon be at the place,” says 
the Texan, over his shoulder. 

Suddenly he stops, and puts out his hand to stay 
the progress of his companion. Both have been ad- 
vancing at a quick walk, and now come to a halt. 
Doctor Jack realizes that something ahead has 
caused the change, and he looks in this quarter to 
see what it may be. 

There is a light on the road — a man swings a lan- 
tern to and fro as he walks — keeps it close to the 
ground as though he would follow certain foot-prints 
he sees there 

“Watch him,” whispers the Texan, who appears 
able to guess a good many things that develop. 

Just at this moment the man who carries the lan- 
tern comes to a halt, turns squarely on his heel, and 
then bends down. 

“Well,” grunts Kirke, “this is the best of luck.” 

“What has he discovered?” whispers the other. 

“That which we seek.” 

“But where does the good luck come in.” 

“You see, if we had come just ten minutes later 
we’d have been ” 

“Ingloriously left. Of course, you can’t see his 
face. You don’t know who it is?” continues Jack. 

“ I can guess. Colonel Garcia himself. While his 
minions kept me closely confined, he has been on 
the lookout to discover where I might have secreted 
the packet. Well, he has found it, and much good 
may it do him.” 


102 


THE TELL-TALE GLOVE, 


Let’s move closer.” 

It is good advice, since the man may yet disap- 
pear with the packet. So they advance again. The 
stooping man is so earnestly engaged in what occu- 
pies his attention that he does not notice their ap- 
proach. They are just in time to see him lift some- 
thing out from under a stone. 

He laughs as he holds it up, and scoffing words in 
the Chilian tongue fall from his lips. 

“ Carajo! here we have it. The search has been 
long, but it is ended at last. Now, Doctor Jack, we 
will see who laughs.” 

“Ha, ha!” 

The Chilian officer starts as if shot, and, while 
still bending on one knee, twists his head around to 
see from whom this cachination proceeds. His dark 
face, as seen by the light from the lantern, gives 
every evidence of sudden fear, for, as we have seen, 
the man is not one in whom the blood of warriors 
runs. 

To his amazement and consternation he looks 
upon the face of the one man he fears, the very 
Doctor Jack whom he had been deriding, and whom 
he has believed beaten in the race. 

“Ah! Colonel Garcia, well met. You may not 
know you handle my property. I inform you of the 
fact. I ask you to drop that packet.” 

He says this so calmly that the Chilian somehow 
conceives the idea that he has terrorized the Ameri- 
can ; he assumes a ferocious frown that would cause 
a hireling to get down on his knees and cower; 
upon Jack it acts in an entirely different manner. 
He laughs. 

“I refuse; unless you leave here suddenly you 


THE TELL-TALE GLOVE. 


103 


will be pulverized, sir, demolished. You forget who 
I am — my reputation as a fire-eater ” 

“Drop that packet!” 

“Ah! it is already done, senor.” 

The change in his deportment is as radical as it 
is sudden, and springs from a fact that has a direct 
bearing on the subject. Something which Doctor 
Jack holds in his hand has been brought to bear 
upon him. It shines in the light of the lantern, and 
has a wicked gleam. The colonel does not have to 
guess what it is, as he has had considerable experi- 
ence with just such deadly toys. 

“ Kirke, secure our property. As for you, my brave 
colonel, suppose you wheel and face the other 
way. Forward march ! Remember, to turn seals 
your doom I” 

The Chilian soldier obeys. It goes against his 
grain to take orders from this Yankee whom he 
hates, but when the case is one of life and death, 
Leon Garcia is not the man to hesitate over trifles. 

Down the street he marches, with the other keep- 
ing step in his rear. He knows he is covered by the 
weapon that holds six deaths, and hence does not 
even dare to turn his head. There is no need — the 
tramp of feet inform him that both Americans fol- 
low. Kirke has secured the packet and brings up 
the rear. 

“Halt!” 

The colonel draws up suddenly, and awaits his 
further orders. Chilian soldiers learn the manual 
well, and even the officers can in an emergency 
prove very docile. 

“ Pass down the street to the right. I shall watch 
you carefully, and as long as you are in sight you 
court death, if any disturbance is made. Go!” 


104 


THE TELL-TALE GLOVE. 


In one minute the colonel with long strides has 
passed beyond the range of their vision. Then an 
outcry is heard — the Chilian officer is calling his men 
around him. Presently they will be swarming about 
the spot where the Yankees were last seen, very 
angry and determined on revenge. 

By this time Doctor Jack and his sturdy compan- 
ion will have put some distance between themselves 
and the point of danger. They lose not a second 
after Garcia has gone, but endeavor to make pro- 
gress and at the same time avoid their enemies. 

The Chilians keep up a great racket. It is under- 
stood that barking dogs do not bite as a general 
thing, and the more noise that is made, the better 
they are pleased. It gives them a pretty good idea 
of the location of their foes, and thus they may 
avoid them. 

Once clear of the affair, they head for the rendez- 
vous, intending to join the dude and Avis, when, 
everything having been arranged, the whole party 
can go on board the steamer which leaves Valpa- 
raiso at dawn. 

As they approach the place selected as the rendez- 
vous, Jack begins to feel anxious. Only one thing 
could occur to worry him now, and this is in con- 
nection with Avis. What if Lord Rackett has fol- 
lowed Larry and his charge from the hotel, and 
pounced upon them with a couple of hirelings? This 
would be a terrible condition of affairs. He groans 
as he reflects that he might possibly have managed 
to send Avis on board earlier. True, she rebelled 
against this, but had he been firm she would have 
yielded. 

It is too late now, and regrets never mended any- 
thing. He can only hope for the best, and keep up 


TEE TELL-TALE GLOVE. 


105 


the brave heart that has carried Doctor Jack 
through many a scene of disaster and danger. 

Evidently they have distanced Garcia and his 
wolves, for no sign of their presence is longer heard. 

Now they reach the rendezvous, and Doctor Jack 
glances around, with a great fear oppressing his 
heart. Avis and Larry do not appear in sight. He 
even gives a little signal that his wife would know, 
but there comes only the silence of despair in re- 
sponse. 

“Sure this is the place?” asks Kirke, uneasily. 

“ Positive. I wonder if Larry could have made a 
mistake. They may be near by,” and eagerly he 
calls out the magic name of “Avis,” at first in low 
tones, and then raising his voice until the cry can be 
heard thirty feet away. 

Alas ! the dead silence mocks him. He is in an 
agony of alarm, this man whom danger to himself 
can never daunt. Even yet he hates to believe the 
worst, but clings to a floating straw. 

“ If Larry misunderstood me and went to another 
place ” he begins. 

“You're wrong. See, your wife has been here to 
a certainty,” and Kirke holds up a dainty kid glove 
he has found. 

At this Doctor Jack groans. Then feebly smiles 
as another ray of hope flashes into his mind. 

“Yes, she’s been here. I’d know her dainty glove 
anywhere” — kissing it rapturously — “but, you see, 
we’re very late ourselves.” 

“That’s true,” returns the Texan, slowly, as 
though he does not exactly catch the meaning of his 
companion. 

“No doubt they became tired.” 

“ Of course.” 


106 


THE TELL-TALE GLOVE, 


‘‘And alarmed.” 

“It would be quite natural.” 

“Larry may have concluded that the danger of 
waiting was too great, and determined to send my 
wife on board, when he could return to meet us.” 

It is singular how eagerly we seize upon things 
that are only half probable, when our hearts long 
to make them true. Really, Jack is beginning to 
believe this may be so, and that his wife is safe on 
board by this time. 

Vain delusion. 

It is Kirke again who steps upon this hope which 
he hugs to his heart. Kirke who utters a low cry 
and stoops to pick up something his foot has 
touched, and which shines in the heavenly light 
like polished silver. 

“That settles it,” he mutters, disconsolately. 

“What have you found?” snaps Jack. 

“ Have you ever set eyes on such a play toy as 
that, before?” demands the Texan, and Doctor 
Jack, taking the object from his grasp, reverently 
handles it while he bravely suppresses a groan and 
simply says : 

“ It belonged to Avis — I gave it to her — something 
serious has happened, I fear.” 

Yes, something has indeed occurred. 


THANKS TO LABRT. 


107 


CHAPTER XIV. 

THANKS TO LARRY. 

No blame can be attached to Larry, if things have 
gone wrong. He has followed the directions of Doc- 
tor Jack to the letter, and, reaching the spot ap- 
pointed as a rendezvous in safety with Avis, has 
waited there for the coming of the man whose hand 
guides the vessel on which they sail. 

It is just about the time when Jack should appear 
that they are suddenly brought face to face with 
danger. Without warning several men come upon 
them. The disagreeable voice of Lord Rackett 
sounds in their ears, and they realize that in some 
way their presence here has become known. 

Larry makes a determined resistance, but he is 
set upon by a couple of wiry Chilians, who treat 
him rather roughly, determined to keep his hands 
secured, and prevent the use of any weapon. 

Doctor Jack’s wife has been equal to the occa- 
sion. When the English lord turns upon her he is 
just in time to dodge as she makes use of the small 
weapon she has drawn. Ere she can repeat the shot 
he has clutched her wrist, and the revolver falls to 
the ground. 

She does not cry aloud for help, though her heart 
is swelling with indignation. If Jack were only to 
appear, how he would make these cowards fly. 
These men who do not hesitate to wage war upon 
women. 

Larry has been overcome in spite of his brave 


108 


IHAIiKS TO LARRY. 


resistance. Why they do not knock him on the head 
and leave him there is strange; but possibly they 
have a use for the dude, or it may be they fear to 
let this evidence of their work remain behind. 

It is also evident that they anticipate the coming 
of Doctor Jack at any moment. The manner of the 
Englishman declares this, for he seems to be on the 
qui vive, and will not allow his revolver to remain 
in his pocket. 

When they move away with the prisoners, it cer- 
tainly looks dark, indeed, for Jack and his fortunes. 
Even a delay will lose him the chance of sailing, 
and this alone brings new dangers upon them from 
the league whose infamous net has been spread for 
his feet. 

“Where are you taking us? By what authority do 
you act?” Avis demands, facing the man who has 
once been her friend, and even now seeks to win 
her by force, she the beloved wife of another. 

“ Have patience — you will see. I am in with the 
authorities in Valparaiso, and have good reason to 
arrest you ” he says, when she bursts out with: 

“Arrest me. Do you mean that, sir?” 

“Yes, after the riot of this evening between the 
Yankee sailors and the people of this city, an Amer- 
ican found in the streets, be it man or woman, is an 
object of suspicion, and subject to the order sent 
out from police headquarters.” 

“ But you have another reason. You will not take 
me before the Intendente Boujito.” 

He laughs even while leading her away. 

“ I confess I only use that excuse as a cloak to 
hide my real feelings. I want you. Avis. I once 
swore to marry you, years ago, and you know a 
Briton never gives up.” 


THANKS TO LARRY, 


109 


“You are certainly crazy, Lord Plympton. You 
forget I am Doctor Jack’s wife,” she exclaims, won- 
dering what manner of creature this man with the 
form of an Apollo and the heart of a Satan must be. 

“His widow, rather,” he remarks, soberly, at 
which she catches her breath, and says : 

“You cannot deceive me. My husband is alive, 
and will soon avenge his wrongs,” for her wifely 
confidence in the ability of Jack to take care of 
himself and those who need his protection is unlim- 
ited. 

“It’s all the same. You will soon be his widow. 
Then, by the aid of a friendly padre whom I know, 
I will make you Lady Plympton” — she gives a gest- 
ure of disgust which causes him to emit one of his 
hearty English laughs — “by Jove! now, it isn’t 
every American girl that would turn up her nose at 
the honor, I assure you.” 

“ Perhaps at one time I might not have been en- 
tirely indifferent to it, but two things make such a 
choice impossible now. In the first place, I am a 
wife, and again, I have seen under the mask you 
used to wear. I know your true nature, and death 
would be preferable to mating with one so vile.” 

He sneers at her words, and, when Larry bravely 
puts in a sentence, dashes his hand into the face of 
the little man, almost knocking his front teeth out. 

“That was brave of you. How I despise a man 
who can strike one not his match,” exclaims Avis, 
bitterly. 

“Let him keep quiet, then. I will not allow wasps 
to sting me!” but from his manner it is evident the 
big Briton is ashamed. 

Larry has learned wisdom, and keeps his peace, 
but at the same time his brain is busy with many 


no 


THANKS TO LARRY. 


thoughts. To outwit this scoundrel now Larry 
would give years of his life, or anything he posses- 
sed and cherished. 

So they proceed in the direction of the water, 
much to the surprise of the dude. He worries over 
the problem of how he can get word to Jack. It 
looks exceedingly dark for them, but his nature is 
hopeful, and he constantly expects something favor- 
able to turn up. 

His curiosity is aroused when they come in sight 
of the water, and the question at once arises as to 
the point of destination before them. Milord chafes 
because the boat he expects to find here is not in 
sight. 

“ The fellow has had plenty of time to reach the 
place — perhaps he’s above or below — come, scatter 
and hunt. Gomez and Juan remain with the prison- 
ers. On your lives do not let them go.” 

While the rest hunt for the boat, Juan, who holds 
a wicked looking weapon in his hand, and grasps 
Larry’s arm tenaciously, bends his head close to the 
dude’s ear to whisper: 

“Senor, your Doctor Jack is rich, is he not?” 

“Immensely so,” returns Larry, in the same thrill- 
ing tone, and at once he begins to believe the chance 
he awaited has come. 

“ He would reward a poor devil of a Chilian sol- 
dier of fortune, if I should be instrumental in sav- 
ing his wife?” 

“ Man, he would make your fortune. All depends 
on our leaving this place by morning. Let me go so 
that I may knock Gomez over the bank into the 
water, and I will promise you anything, and see 
that you have it, too.” 

“Ho, no; I could not do that. He would know 


THANKS TO LARRY. 


Ill 


who was to blame. I fear the Englishman. What 
good would a thousand reals do Juan Bartello, if 
his life pays the penalty?” 

“What do you propose, then?” in agony lest the 
Englishman return too soon. 

“You have paper — pencil?” 

“Yes, yes.” 

“Write a line to this wonderful Doctor Jack. 
Say, ‘trust the bearer fully.’ Then tell me where I 
may find him. I shall be sent on a message by my 
employer when he leaves in the boat. I will bring 
your friend here.” 

“Heaven be praised!” mutters the little man. 

With feverish haste, he takes out an envelope— a 
pencil. On the back of the paper he writes as well as 
the lack of light allows : 

“Trust the bearer. We are in milord’s hands on 
edge of harbor, waiting for boat.” 

Then he signs his name. 

There is no need to say “come quickly,” for Doctor 
Jack will fiy as though he had wings when he re- 
ceives this message. 

“ Conceal that — go to the place where we were 
captured — he will come,” the New Yorker says, 
hastily pushing the note into his hand. 

“And my reward, senor. Remember, I take my 
life into my hands.” 

“ A thousand reals, you say ?” 

“Surely it is worth it.” 

“Yes, and more. Put your hand into this pocket 
and remove the purse. One-third of what you ask 
is in it — some one else would get it presently, any- 
how — better the man who is my friend.” 

“They come, senor.” 


112 


THANKS TO LARRY, 


‘‘Juan, you will do what you promise?” 

“ Si, senor ; I owe him one for a past offense. Some 
day Juan may pay in full. Besides, it is a chance 
of a life-time to make a fortune. Yes, I will bring 
your Doctor Jack here.” 

The arrival of the others prevents further conver- 
sation, but Larry feels better. Given some time and 
he believes all must be well. 

From the growls of the Englishman it is evident 
that they have not found the boat which they seek ; 
but as luck will have it, even at this moment it 
heaves in sight. 

This mollifies milord, who hails the two men in 
the craft, directing them where to pull up on the 
little beach. 

Then he directs several of his followers to enter, 
leading the prisoners. With Juan he remains in 
consultation a short time, after which the Chilian 
hurries away. Larry has a thought or two in con- 
nection with this same Juan that does not give him 
the greatest pleasure in the world, but just at pres- 
ent he is engaged with other matters. 

The boat holds them all comfortably, and fortu- 
nately the harbor is stirred by no violent nor ’wester 
such as kicks up such a sea in this rather dangerous 
place. 

Avis has said nothing. She controls her feelings 
in a wonderful way, though of necessity alarmed at 
the situation. Some of her sex would be sobbing. 
She chances to be made of sterner material. Her 
association with Jack Evans has given her even 
more qualities of bravery than nature bestowed. 

The two men who row the boat are sailors. 

Larry pays attention and discovers that they are 
British tars. They show the greatest respect for the 


THANKS TO LARBT. 


113 


nobleman, and this, with their neat uniform, gives 
Larry an idea that sends a cold shudder through his 
frame. 

He conceives a horrible fancy that gives promise 
of being a truth. This rich Englishman probably 
has a yacht anchored in the harbor. When they are 
aboard anchor will be heaved, and everything at 
Valparaiso left behind. At their leisure they can 
proceed to hang him to a yard-arm, or toss him 
overboard. 

The dude feels desperate. Already he can see the 
outlines of a vessel ahead. It is while he is in this 
strain that fortune suddenly throws a chance in his 
way to at least create a disturbance. He finds a 
large cork in the bottom of the boat under a thwart, 
and calmly pulls it out. The water at once rushes 
into the boat, which, being overloaded, almost im- 
mediately begins to sink. Shouts ring out on the 
night air, and in another moment the boat goes 
down, leaving them all struggling in the salty 
waters of Valparaiso harbor. 


114 


LABIiY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND, 


CHAPTER XV. 

LARRY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND. 

The situation is a dramatic one, and has been 
brought about so suddenly that there is no time to 
prepare for it. 

Hence all are plunged into the water. Larry Ken- 
nedy has expected such an event, and is prepared. 
All the others, being taken by surprise, flounder 
about as though they are so many porpoises, for 
even good swimmers may be taken unawares. 

Avis is in the water, battling bravely for her life, 
when Larry assists her. He has seized upon one of 
the oars dropped bv the sailor v/ho had had it in his 
charge, and this he thrusts into her hands, calling 
out brave words in her ear. 

“Fight hard for it. Avis, dear Avis. I did it to 
save you,” is what he cries. 

“Did what?” she splutters, for the water somehow 
manages to splash into her mouth. 

“ Pulled the big plug out of the bottom ' of the 
boat. Head that way — the shore lies there. Tell me 
if you get tired out. Cousin Larry is here to support 
you. Keep up a brave heart, and think of Jack.” 

Wise Larry— that head of yours contains the ele- 
ments that go to make up a statesman. At the men- 
tion of Jack’s name Avis seems to receive new life, 
just as he knew she would. 

An extraordinarily good swimmer, Avis would 
have made for the shore like a flsh only that her 
dress hinders her progress. She can, with the aid 


LABBY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND. 115 

of the oar, keep afloat, but that is almost the extent 
of it. 

Larry, paddling along at her side, casts an occa- 
sional glance behind. The lights of the city beckon 
them on, while in their rear signs of a commotion 
are not lacking, for the men flounder in the water, 
and the voice of the British lion is heard roaring 
out commands, calling upon those on the vessel to 
lower boats and come to the rescue. 

Of course, with the first outcry the yacht has be- 
come alive with sailors, and already a couple of 
boats have been dropped and are being speedily 
manned. 

Larry hopes much from the friendly darkness. 
One thing gives him much worry — the tide is strong 
at this point, and threatens to carry them past the 
rocks and out to sea — into the surf that pounds upon 
the beach beyond. He can feel that its force is hard 
to resist, and knows it will be a toss-up as to whether 
they reach the point, or are swept past. 

How the rescuers have arrived upon the scene, 
and the splashing men are lifted out of the water. 
The boat did not sink when relieved of the weight 
that was in it, but as a waterlogged craft, floated, 
allowing the whole of them a chance to hold on and 
remain above the surface. Hence none were 
drowned. 

As soon as milord sees the last one picked up, he 
starts an inquiry : 

“What happened? Were we run into?” he de- 
mands, and only one sailor can answer. 

“Ho, sir. I heard water rushing in through the 
bottom, and while I hung on to the boat I investi- 
gated. Some fellow drawed the plug, and as it. was 
extra big she fllled at once.” 


116 


LARRY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND, 


‘‘Who sat over the plug, Jenson?” 

“That queer little chap, my lord.” 

“ I seen him a-bendin’ down just before we took 
the plunge, my lord,” declares the other sailor, 
eagerly, for they fear it may be put down as negli- 
gence on their part. 

The other gives a tremendous oath. 

“ That settles it. Larry Kennedy is at the bottom 
of this. Therefore he has not drowned. They are 
making off. Give me that lantern. Return to the 
yacht with those shivering rats, and the sunken 
boat. Secure plenty of lights, and come back in 
force. Search every yard between here and the 
point. By Jove ! she shall not escape me.” 

Thus is the bull-dog pertinacity shown in this 
British subject. He will hang on to the last. The 
boat shoots forward, impelled by the swift strokes 
of the rowers, and in the bow crouches the dripping 
figure of milord, holding a lantern in one hand and 
shielding his eyes from its direct rays with the 
other, as he scans the surface of the water for signs 
of the fugitives. 

He is a shrewd fellow, this Lord Rackett, and 
does not search at random, but notices the play of 
the tide, and gives a close calculation as to where 
Larry and his charge must have drifted while en- 
deavoring to make the shore. 

Once they pass the swimmers, just out of range, 
and fail to discover them, for which Larry is thank- 
ful. He still has hopes of making the tongue of 
land, and even if this fails it might be better to be 
swept out to death than fall into the hands of their 
enemy. If the worst came, Larry would call out, 
believing half a loaf is better than no bread, and 
that there must always be a chance of Jack’s arrival. 


LARRY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND. 117 

The boat has turned again. Once more it heads 
in their direction, with that gigantic figure looming 
up in the bow, waving the lantern and shouting 
directions. 

This time fate leads them across the line which 
Larry is endeavoring to make for the point. It is 
just as well, for Avis cannot hold out much longer, 
and already the dude realizes that only a strong 
swimmer could battle successfully against that cur- 
rent which insidiously but surely drags them to- 
ward the surf. 

With a certain amount of calmness, then, he 
awaits the discovery. One might look for some- . 
thing of the same complacency in a stoical red man 
of the forest going to his fate, and in his little birch- 
bark canoe nearing the awful brink of Niagara. 

It comes at last, for the sharp eyes of the man 
who crouches in the bow of the boat discover him. 
There is a cry of triumph, and Lord Rackett calls 
upon his men to pull all together with a will, just 
as though he fears that the fugitives will again 
elude his vision. 

So the boat comes alongside and Larry reaches 
Avis toward them, signifying that he would have 
her taken in before they pay any attention to him. 
Thus Doctor Jack’s wife once more finds herself in 
the power of the man she has learned to hate and 
fear. The Englishman tosses an overcoat brought 
from the '•yacht to one of his men, who wraps it 
around the wet figure of Avis. She is grateful for 
this kindness, and thanks the man sweetly. 

“Give way for the yacht!” says Lord Rackett, 
placing the lantern under a seat, so that its light 
will no longer dazzle the men’s eyes. 

“But, milord ” 


118 


LARRY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND. 


“Well, Bailey,” with a yawn. 

“ The man who is in the water, sir ” 

“ Leave him there. We are loaded.” 

“He will be unable to get to shore, milord.” 

“What the duse do I care. He is in the water by 
his own choice. Gave us all this trouble, confound 
him. Now, I hope he’s satisfied. Pull for the yacht. 
Captain Bailey.” 

“ Lord Rackett, I beg that you will not desert my 
cousin,” Avis forces herself to say, but she gets 
poor satisfaction. 

“ He made his bed. Let him lie in it. For the 
yacht, my hearties,” is his response. 

No more is said, and the boat speedily leaves the 
spot where the fugitives have been found. 

If the Briton expects Larry Kennedy to tamely 
submit to such a cruel fate, he certainly * counts 
without his host. The little New Yorker cares to 
continue his existence about as well as the next 
one, and will make a determined fight against such 
a decree. To remain where he is means death in 
the breakers along shore outside the harbor, or 
should he in some way escape this, he must drift 
out to sea, and perhaps become the prey of some 
hungry shark. 

No, thank you, such a destiny has no charms in 
the eyes of Larry. He is ready to fight again for his 
life. 

Thanks to his quick intellect, he is able to see a 
chance immediately. The boat swings past him in 
the darkness, actually bumping his head in its pas- 
sage. Larry puts out a hand and catches hold of 
the rudder, to which he clings with a tenacious 
grip, and is thus towed along as the boat, urged by 
the powerful strokes of the sailors, heads toward the 


LARRY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND. 119 

yacht, on which can be seen a bright beacon in- 
tended to serve as a guide. 

The rudder not being used, no one discovers the 
presence of the little New Yorker, who holds on with 
the tenacity of his species, and although almost 
half-drowned at times, manages to keep his position 
until the yacht is reached. 

Then, fearing discovery, he leaves his place and 
swims along the side of the vessel, until he reaches 
the bow, where he finds first of all a place to rest, 
hanging on to a rope that dangles from the deck, 
and also a chance to board the craft when the time 
is at hand. 

All soon becomes quiet on board the little vessel 
that rides to her anchor in the harbor of Valparaiso. 

Avis has been taken in charge by the wife of the 
captain, who is on board — a matronly English 
woman, who fears Lord Rackett about as much as 
she does Satan. At any rate, she supplies dry 
clothes to Doctor Jack’s wife, who is in sad need of 
such attention after being nearly half an hour in 
the water. 

There is no movement made with regard to get- 
ting the yacht underway. Perhaps a lack of wind 
may account for this, or some other reason that 
originates in the owner’s brain. 

He relies a great deal upon the protection afforded 
by the British Union Jack which flies from his ves- 
sel. That flag has led many a forlorn hope, won 
many a great victory, and oftimes shielded perse- 
cuted people, for back of it is the strong arm of the 
English people ; but on more occasions than one has 
it been used by unprincipled persons to hide their 
villainy. 

Larry Kennedy grows tired of Jianging there ip 


120 


LARRY DECLINES TO BE LEFT BEHIND. 


the bow, and he makes up his mind he would like to 
go aboard the craft. True, he has no invitation, 
and if discovered is apt to be treated roughly, per- 
haps tossed overboard, but this prospect does not 
alarm him. 

He proceeds to investigate his position and learn 
how it may be bettered. Five minutes later he is 
seated on the chain of the left bower anchor, which 
is not in use, the chain making a loop that hangs 
half-way to the water. 

Here Larry remains some time in order that his 
clothes may drip. The sounds are drowned in the 
gurgle and splash of the outgoing tide against the 
bow and sides of the yacht. 

At length, when he feels that he has, in a meas- 
ure, dried out, Larry proceeds to his next move, 
which, of course, is to crawl on board. He has one 
hope — that Juan will find Doctor Jack and bring 
him upon the scene. Once this man reaches the 
yacht, he will raise a terrible row, and woe to him 
who tries to stand between an infuriated husband 
and his own. 

What Larry fears, most of all, is that the wind 
may come up and the vessel get away. It will ruin 
all his hopes and plans, and he finally crawls aboard 
in the hope of being able to prevent such a catas- 
trophe. 


TAKING THE BULL BY THE HORNS. 


121 


CHAPTER XVI. 

TAKING THE BULL BY THE HORNS. 

At the moment when Larry crawls over the bow 
of the yacht it happens that no one is near. A light 
or two burn in their respective places, but the deck 
is in darkness. 

Back toward the stern Larry can see several 
small bits of fire that glow periodically. These he 
knows are cigars, and it is evident that Lord 
Rackett and others are seated there enjoying them- 
selves. 

Larry does not care to remain on deck any longer 
than he can help, as the risk of detection is great. 
Besides, the one he seeks to benefit must be in the 
cabin. 

He has been on yachts before now, and knows 
how to get below. It is only a question of avoiding 
any sailor men who may be on deck. He creeps 
along cautiously, holding his very breath at times, 
discovery seems so near, but favored by fortune 
manages to reach security under the deck. 

The yacht is elegantly fitted out, and Larry, who 
has an eye for the beautiful, casts a glance of ap- 
preciation around him. 

There are two state-rooms connecting with the 
cabin, and also superior accommodations for the 
captain of the craft. What Larry now wishes to 
discover is the room Avis occupies. 

Undoubtedly it will be locked. He looks at the 
doors and sees a key in each, tries the nearest and 


122 


TAKING THE BULL BY THE HORNS. 


discovers it fast. This decides him. Gently he 
knocks, but at first no notice is taken of his effort. 

Finally he unlocks the door, and gives a sharp 
rap upon the panel, following it up by immediately 
secreting himself behind an easy-chair that hap- 
pens to be near by. 

The result proves the wisdom of his maneuvers, 
for hardly has he crouched there before the state- 
room door opens, and a head appears. 

It belongs to Doctor Jack’s wife. 

Larry, delighted, at once shows himself to the in- 
tense satisfaction of his cousin, but before a word 
can be said, heavy steps are heard drawing near. 
The dude makes a quick gesture, and Avis in obedi- 
ence closes the door. 

At the same time Larry drops and curls himself 
up back of the chair. There are times when it is a 
positive advantage to be small, as he realizes just at 
this moment. 

Some one enters the cabin. He can hear the party 
moving about, and venturing to make an observa- 
tion discovers — milord. 

Larry regrets that he is unarmed, and the next 
glance he gives around the walls is in search of 
some weapon, for he hates this man, and means to 
come between him and his prisoner. 

Lord Rackett walks up and down the cabin a 
number of times. Then he opens a closet in a cor- 
ner, and takes out a decanter, from which, selecting 
a bottle, he fills a glass, makes a movement with his 
hand toward the door of the state-room as though 
drinking to the health of the fair occupant, and 
gulps the liquor down. 

Larry feels better. 

He has just discovered in the corner back of ^lim 


TAKING TEE BULL BY THE HOBNS. 123 

what appears to be an oddity. The best he can 
make of it is an Australian boomerang ; but in his 
eyes it assumes the functions of a plain, every-day 
cudgel. 

How eagerly his hand goes out to it, and with 
what intense joy he clutches the hard wood. A 
thump with such a crooked weapon must give a 
man a headache for hours. 

How, let milord have a care, or he will be ‘‘blown 
up with his own petard,” for the dude is on the war- 
path. 

It is far from Larry s intention to disclose his 
presence, unless it is absolutely necessary. He 
would much rather accomplish his work through 
strategy than force, but as a last resort is ready to 
appeal to arms. 

Whenever the British subject is about to turn bis 
way, he ducks his head out of sight. The vast di- 
mensions of the chair allow him a good chance for 
hiding. 

Lord Rackett marches up and down as though 
endeavoring to frame a plan of action; he has 
numerous things to worry over. It is not often his 
lordship’s head is troubled, and the unusual exertion 
exhausts the poor man. 

So he throws his ponderous weight into an easy- 
chair. By some freak of fate it chances to be the 
one behind which poor Larry has taken up his tem- 
porary quarters. By another miserable streak of ill- 
luck the thing is on rollers. Ordinarily, this fact 
would have little or no significance, but a combina- 
tion of circumstances makes it assume a peculiar 
prominence just now. 

As milord thus roughly drops into the chair his 
weight causes it to roll backward, and Larry’s un- 


121 


TAKING THE BULL BY THE HOKNS. 


fortunate head is squeezed between the chair and 
the cabin wall. 

Involuntarily the dude lets forth a yell that would 
put the whistle of a steam tug to shame. It is im- 
possible to help it under the circumstances, much 
as Larry would give to avoid such a betrayal of his 
presence. 

Milord gets up. His movements can only be 
likened to the spasmodic leap an electric current 
would bring about. Perhaps the wildest fancies 
flash through his brain, as he thus madly springs 
out of the chair. 

Knowing full well that the game is up, Larry no 
longer attempts concealment. The pain he has just 
suffered also urges him on to attack the other. 

He rushes out with the whirling boomerang, to the 
utter astonishment of Lord Rackett, who fully be- 
lieves the dude to be drowned ere now, or at least 
fighting for his life out on the ocean. 

You!” he gasps. 

“Yes, me. Who else would you have? IVe come 
to haunt you, miserable wretch. Do you hear, 
you’re doomed — doomed!” 

With each repetition of that last word Larry aims 
a vicious blow at the head of the big Briton. The 
whirling boomerang, looking for all the world like 
a writhing snake, passes so close to his head that 
he can hear the whistling sound it makes, which in- 
creases his alarrh. 

Nor does Larry stop with threats. He means to 
test his novel weapon upon the aristocratic skull of 
the Briton, and pursues his tactics with this end in 
view. 

After a couple more ineffectual blows he finally 
succeeds in bringing the boomerang with a resound- 


TAKING THE BULL BY THE HORNS. 


125 


ing whack against milord’s head. The Englishman 
at once drops like a bullock in the shambles, but 
immediately scrambles to his feet and dashes out of 
the cabin. 

Larry does not follow ; Larry has his hands full 
as it is, without rushing on deck to assail the whole 
crew. 

He is left master of the cabin, but this will not be 
for long. That boomerang cannot keep the sailors 
who man the yacht at bay, wicked though it looked 
in the eyes of the English nobleman. 

Larry realizes this, and is quick to make up his 
mind how he should act. What he wants, most of 
all, is a weapon, ^ut his first act before he does any- 
thing else is to slam the cabin door shut, and shoot 
a bolt he finds into its socket. 

This will give him a breathing spell and a chance 
to look around. The walls are hung with some 
strange weapons the owner of the yacht has picked 
up in his wanderings, but none of them strike Larry 
as being adapted to his purpose. He wants some- 
thing with which he is more familiar than the yata- 
ghan of an Arab, or the war-club of a South Sea 
Islander, though it must be confessed he did a re- 
markably clever job with the boomerang. 

He darts to the door of the second state-room, and 
flings it open. As he suspected, this is the apart- 
ment belonging to milord himself, and here he is 
apt to And what he seeks. 

One of the first things he discovers is a revolver 
and a box of cartridges lying on a shelf, and the 
eagerness with which he seizes upon them is proof 
of his earnestness. Then he again seeks the cabin. 
It is time, too, for already loud blows can be heard 
upon the door, telling that the men have obeyed 


126 


TAKING THE BULL BY THE BOHNS. 


milord’s call for help, and are eager to burst the 
door open in order to accomplish their end. 

Larry deliberately fires several bullets through 
the panels of the door. It is not apparent what 
damage his lead does, but the pounding stops. 

This allows another breathing spell, which will 
not be for long. The British sailors are not to be 
put off, and they will soon return to the attack, 
breaking the door in. Perhaps some may enter by 
means of the window at the stern, which can be 
reached from without. 

Larry has a chance to leap into the water through 
this opening, but does not care to avail himself 
of it. 

Having come hither and endured these hardships 
with a purpose in view, he does not mean to seek 
his' own safety in flight— at least, not yet. 

Again he turns to the state-room door and knocks. 
It is once more opened by Avis, who greets him 
with a smile. 

Perhaps she has been a witness of the encounter 
in the cabin, and her reception is that accorded a 
victor. At any rate, Larry feels six inches taller 
than before. 

“What can we do?” she asks, hastily. 

• Larry has set to work examining the thickness of 
the state-room door. 

“Quite a sturdy affair. We might hold out be- 
hind that until Jack comes.” 

His idea is, of course, for defense. If they can 
keep the enemy at bay for a certain length of time. 
Doctor Jack may arrive on the scene; and once he 
shows up the chances for winning must be increased 
a dozen fold. 

“Look here, what’s this?” he cries, bending over 


TAKING THE BULL BY THE HORNS, 


127 


a small yacht cannon of brass, with wheels under the 
blocks, and some shells in a cup attached. 

At sight of this weapon Larry is seized with a 
stupendous idea. He drags it into the state-room, 
and then bars the door. 

Although not a soldier or gunner by profession, 
Larry has some knack with various utensils of war, 
and readily comprehends how the yacht cannon 
should be loaded. He finds the shells blank cart- 
ridges for firing salutes, but it will be easy to slip 
some rusty nails or other missiles into the grim 
throat of the little brass monster, and thus make it 
a terrible weapon. 

By this time the assault on the door of the cabin 
has begun again, and it speedily gives way with a 
crash. 

Men rush through, and in a short time a hand 
violently shakes the door of the state-room, behind 
which stands Larry, coolly arranging his yacht can- 
non for business, while at his side is Doctor Jack’s 
wife, her hashing blue eyes speaking defiance to 
the mob that hammers madly for admittance. 


128 ovmi THE WATEB TO VALFAUAISO LIGHTS. 


CHAPTER XVII. 

OVER THE WATER TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 

“Silence!” roars the lion-like voice of the big 
Englishman, and his men cease their chattering, 
for his word is law. 

Then comes a single kick at the door. 

“Within there, Yankee.” 

“Well, what d’ye want?” demands Larry, not 
forgetting his usual aggravating drawl. 

“Come out and surrender, Mr. Kennedy.” 

“Thanks, awfully.” 

“ WeTl send you safely to the shore. I give you 
my word for it.” 

“Alone?” 

“Of course.” 

“I have a lady in my charge.” 

“She remains on the Bull-Dog.” 

“So do I,” laconically adds Larry. 

He can imagine the look of disgust upon the face 
of the Briton, when he finds his demands thus met 
by a flat refusal. 

“You understand that we can break this door in 
as we did the other, and I have six men back of me 
to enforce my orders.” 

“Six — is that all your crew — only six?” 

Larry seeks information, and this is the way he 
expects to get it. The plan succeeds, for milord im- 
agines he is giving in. 

“The rest of them are away on shore. It would 


OVER THE WATER TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 129 

be folly to think of resisting us. Open, then, and 
cause no delay.” 

“Couldn’t think of it, weally now.” 

“Then the door shall be broken in, and you need 
expect no mercy.” 

“The first man who strikes that door may sink 
the yacht. Listen, Lord Rackett, I'm a desperate 
man. I have the means to carry out my threats,” 

“Humbug! you Yankees can boast,” sneers the 
man on the other side. 

“Look around. Do you miss anything in the 
cabin, my dear fellow?” 

“Great Scott! the brass gun!” 

“ Exactly. I have it in here trained on the door, 
and loaded to the muzzle with nails, revolv^er cart- 
ridges, and trash. When I fire it will tear the whole 
side of your boat out. Now, order your men to 
break in the door.” 

There is a tone of triumph visible in the dude’s 
address. Though still in a bad position, he at least 
holds the power in his hand, and is far from whipped. 

His information causes some consternation among 
the sailors, and no doubt there is a scattering on 
their part to get out of range. Perhaps they know 
the qualities that distinguish this gun. At any rate, 
the threatened attack fails to materialize. 

Some other means will be adopted to bring the 
mutineer to terms ; but Larry does not sleep, and he 
is accomplishing at least one good thing in the pas- 
sage of time. 

Every minute counts, since it gives Doctor Jack a 
better chance to reach the scene, and that is the 
event Larry depends upon. He goes to the little 
bull’s-eye window at the side of the state-room a 
number of times and looks out. Blackness meets 


130 OVEB THE WATEIi TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 

his gaze, though he can see the lights of Valparaiso 
over the watery space that separates them. 

Is Jack Evans coming? 

Perhaps this man Juan, who offered to serve him 
in such a strange w-ay, is really deep in the service 
of the Briton. He may even have assumed a mask 
in order to insnare Doctor Jack. 

As time passes, Larry becomes more and more 
uneasy. He wonders what the enemy is at. They 
have certainly not given up the game, for as yet it 
lies pretty much in their hands. All they have to do 
is to find a way of grasping the case. 

Their very silence convinces him that something 
is on the tapis. There has been a light in the state- 
room, but he extinguishes it, for fear lest some one 
may fire a shot through the bulTs-eye window, that 
may be fatal. 

In the darkness they wait. Larry has explained 
all he knows to Avis, and she is as much in hope of 
seeing Jack arrive on the scene as the dude can be, 
for her confidence in him is amazing. 

“When Jack comes it will be all right,” she says 
more than once, and such sublime faith in a man is 
little short of wonderful. 

Larry keeps himself prepared, and should an 
attack be made upon the door, he will give the 
aggressors much more than they bargain for. Nor 
does he neglect the opening through which gleam 
Valparaiso lights, dancing along the waves between. 

When he looks out for, perhaps, the tenth time, 
eagerly listening for some sound that would indi- 
cate the coming of Jack, he receives a thrill. Surely 
a moving object obscured the light just on the shore 
for a moment, and this could only be a boat. 

His pulses quicken and hope is revived. Straining 


OVER THE WATER TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 131 

his eyes, he awaits the development of events. 
While thus glancing over the dark water, he be- 
comes conscious of a movement near by. It is not 
Avis, though she stands at his side watching for 
the coming of the man she loves. Larry is quick 
to comprehend the significance of the sound, and 
realizes that it means new danger to himself and 
Avis. 

His enemies have been secretly at work and mean 
mischief. First he sees a pair of legs dangling be- 
tween the sky and himself, and evidently feeling 
for the support of the bull’s-eye. 

Larry takes this as an insult, an infringement on 
his rights, and accordingly he resents it. 

In some way or other he has become possessed of a 
knife. It has been used as a carver at the English- 
man’s table, and has a buck-horn handle with a 
silver butt, the blade being a foot long and coming 
to a cimeter point — quite a formidable weapon in 
the hands of a desperate and determined man. 

Reaching this out when the dangling limbs come 
within easy reach, Larry begins to prod them with 
the point of the knife. It is sharp enough to pierce 
through the garments of the dangling adventurer 
and produce a painful stab. 

Each movement on the part of the dude is accom- 
panied by a yell from the object of his tender solici- 
tude, and the gyrations executed by that pair of 
legs were certainly never equaled on any dancing 
floor. 

Einally, when. the fellow is about to drop into the 
water of the harbor to save his life, his comrades 
above comprehend the situation and draw him up 
sadly demoralized. 

That game has proved a bad failure, and some- 


132 OVER THE WATER TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 

thing else must be devised, if they hope to accom- 
plish their end. 

Having disposed of this matter, Larry can now 
pay attention to other things, and he uses both eyes 
and ears in the endeavor to see what may be going 
on over the water. Was it a boat he had a glimpse 
of, or did his eyes deceive him? Even if a boat, 
could the occupants be Kirke Smith and Doctor 
Jack. 

So he waits, eagerly, anxiously. 

Avis, to whom he has communicated his hopes, 
makes a suggestion that seems wise, and Larry 
thereupon lights the lamp in the bracket on the 
wall. Its rays, shining through the bulls-eye win- 
dow, will attract the eye of the man whose coming 
they so anxiously await; the man who seeks his 
own, and whose coming will cause consternation on 
board the tight little British yacht when he boards 
her. 

Those above are not yet done. They cudgel their 
brains to devise means whereby the determined oc- 
cupants of the state-room shall be forced to sur- 
render. 

Suddenly an object swings in through the small 
open window and drops on the floor. 

Immediately they perceive a horrible odor, which 
arises from a smoldering bundle of rags. It is 
something intensely disagreeable, and calculated to 
make one’s head swim inside of sixty seconds or 
less. 

Of course, the idea of those who have conceived 
this brilliant scheme is that, driven by the gas and 
odor to seek fresh air, the occupants of the state- 
room will immediately unfasten the door and stag- 
ger into the cabin. 


OVEB TEE WATER TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 133 

Larry somehow is overcome at once. He gives a 
positive howl of anguish as the fearful odor strikes 
him, and curls up on the floor like a wounded bear. 

Only for the bravery of Doctor Jack's wife they 
might be smothered then and there. Her quick 
woman’s conception realizes wliat is to be done. 
Without wasting a second, she snatches a towel, 
holds her breath, throws the cloth over the smoking 
bundle of rags, snatches the whole thing off the 
floor, and tosses it through the bull’s-eye window. 

“Saved!” gasps little Larry, rising to a sitting 
position, for he has witnessed the whole perform- 
ance, though too weak to take part in it. 

Still gasping he reaches the opening, and sucks in 
some fresh air. It is hard to tell what manner of 
scheme their enemies will next concoct. Larry is 
beginning to realize that he is fighting men who do 
not give up in a hurry. 

“We can prevent that sort of business easily,” he 
says, closing the bull’s-eye, but the air is so full of 
gas that he is compelled to partially open it again 
or suffocate. 

“Never could stand the least gas, Cousin Avis. 
Makes my head spin like a top,” he says, as if en- 
deavoring to apologize for the undignified and sud- 
den manner in which he went to the floor when the 
terrible odor came in at the window; but Avis, 
brave Avis, who possesses much of the spirit that ani- 
mates her husband, and never despairs, flashes a 
bright smile toward her cousin and answers cheerily. 

Then they fall to watching again. It is not long 
before Larry’s attitude gives rise to the idea that he 
has heard something besides the lapping of the 
waves against the side of the little yacht. 

“Is that a mouse, Avis?” he demands. 


134 OVER THE WATER TO VALPARAISO LIGHTS. 

Listening, she hears nothing. 

“Jove! it must have heard me and stopped. 
Wonderful cweatures these rats on shipboard.” 

“Rats! Do you think it can be that?” and the 
woman who can face the gravest danger in the 
world without flinching shudders and turns pale as 
the sounds Larry heard come distinctly to her ears. 

Then she suddenly smiles. 

“ Cousin Larry, rats do not work so methodically. 
Listen, and you can count the number of taps. It 
is as if some one hammered gently on the partition. 
Perhaps our friends, the enemy, have another plan 
on the tapis. ” 

“Jove! d’ye know what it makes me think of?” 
bursts out Larry — “ a telegraph sounder at ” 

He says no more, for Avis has given a sudden 
startled cry — a new expression flashes over her face 
— she bends her head to listen. Now the gentle 
taps, short and long, come from a point close to 
her ear, as though they are being delicately ham- 
mered on the vessel’s side. Suddenly Doctor Jack’s 
wife looks up, smiling : 

“ This is what it says. Cousin Larry ; ‘Avis, I am 
here. Jack.’” 


WHAT HAPPENED ON DECK. 


135 


CHAPTER XVIIl. 

WHAT HAPPENED ON DECK. 

At receiving this information^ Larry is quite de- 
lighted. He suddenly remembers that Doctor Jack 
chanced to be an operator in his youthful days, 
and that having taught Avis how to send and re- 
ceive fairly well when they were first married, they 
used to have considerable fun out of the affair. 

Now this knowledge gives promise of bearing 
practical fruits. 

Avis is all excitement. The fact that this series 
of gentle tappings, not unlike the wash of the waves 
against the side of the vessel, constitute a message 
from her husband — that Jack is really within a 
yard of where she stands— causes her untold satis- 
faction. 

Looking around she sees the carver just where 
Larry dropped it when the gas overpowered him. 
She seizes hold of it, and upon the side of tlie state- 
room beats answering signals. The wind has arisen 
and whistles through the cordage of the rigging, so 
that one on deck would not be apt to notice these 
sounds unless his ear chanced to be educated to the 
Morse alphabet. 

Larry listens with a positive grin upon his face. 
It is all Greek or Choctaw to him, but he knows 
Avis is talking with her husband, and the fact of 
Doctor Jack’s presence inspires the little man with 
lively emotions. 


136 


WHAT HAPPENED ON DECK. 


So he waits with patience the termination of this 
strange conversation, waits until Avis turns upon 
him eagerly, to say : 

“ They are here in a boat, their presence unsus- 
pected. If we could only pass through the opening 
in safety we might elude the vigilance of our foes, 
but” — with a shudder — “that is simply impossible 
— you might succeed, but I should die in the at- 
tempt. The question is, what shall be done?” 

Larry smites his head with his fingers, as though 
he would thus arouse his thoughts. The endeavor 
seems successful, too. 

“Jove ! I’ve an idea. Cousin Avis,” he exclaims. 

“Let us have it quickly, then,” she says, for Larry 
is just as apt to lose it again before it can be com- 
municated. 

The little man shoots her a reproachful glance, as 
though he hardly thinks she treats him fairly. 

“It’s evident that we can’t leave this yacht until 
we’ve conquered those on board, and I purpose do- 
ing that same thing,” he says, soberly. 

She looks at him, amazed. 

“Alone, Larry?” 

There are six or seven men opposed to them, per- 
haps even more. The fellow whose legs Larry so 
neatly punctured would surely count for two in an 
engagement, his rage being at white heat. Larry, 
opposed to such a force, must go down like a tree 
before the gale. 

The dude, however, has looked farther ahead. 

“You can communicate with Jack. Tell him to 
be ready to board the yacht at the first shot. By 
Jove! he’ll know what to do after that.” 

“You mean to go on deck?” she asks, uneasily. 

“If I can get there.” 


WHAT HAPPENED ON DECK. 


137 


‘‘And leave me alone? What shall I do if they try 
to break in the door?” 

“Pull the string. The cannon will do the rest, my 
dear Avis,” grins Larry. 

“Then go, in Heaven’s name.” 

She is uneasy. It is not of herself Avis thinks, 
but of her husband. Jack will soon be engaged in 
a desperate struggle with men who seek his life, 
and deep down in her heart she prays that he may 
be preserved to her— that no wretched bullet will 
seek him out for a victim. 

“You will fasten the door after me. Avis?” 

“ Yes — yes.” 

“ And remember, if they try to break in ” 

“They will regret it,” and the determination in 
her voice speaks louder than words. 

Larry gives her a look calculated to express his 
admiration, and then flits over to the door, casting 
a grim glance at the brass cannon that bears upon 
him, for no one knows better than Larry what its 
gaping mouth contains, and the terrible execution 
it will do when discharged. 

He listens first of all, but can hear no sound from 
the cabin that would indicate the presence of foes. 
Avis is tapping gently once more on the wall, send- 
ing a message to the one whose ear is pressed 
against the side of the yacht, drinking it in, while 
his companion, no doubt, holds the boat to her 
place. 

The darkness which Larry more than once has 
growled against now proves their best friend in 
time of need. 

Avis turns around and nods. 

“Is it all arranged?” he whispers, eagerly. 

“Yes— he will be there— don’t fear.” 


138 


WHAT HAPPENED ON DECK. 


Larry kisses his hand to her gallantly, and then 
cautiously unfastens the door, holding his revolver, 
fully charged and ready for business. 

As the opening increases in size he can see into 
the cabin, and notes the fact that it appears to be 
deserted. Now he pokes his head out to make a 
more extended survey before venturing wholly be- 
yond the threshold. 

At the same moment a head is thrust out from 
the door on the opposite side, belonging to the sec- 
ond state-room. A head doubtless connected with 
the body of a British seaman placed on duty here to 
guard the besieged Yankee. 

They glare at each other for a moment, but Larry 
is not to be so easily balked in his plans, so he 
slowly raises his hand until , it is on a line with the 
fellow's head. 

What it contains seems to give new life to the ap- 
parently paralyzed man opposite, for he suddenly 
utters a gurgling cry of alarm, draws his head in as 
might a mud-turtle, and slams the door. No doubt 
behind it he at once prepares to resist boarders, de- 
termined to do or die on the spot if the terrible little 
Yankee endeavors to follow him. 

Larry smiles serenely, steps over, locks the door, 
and puts the key in his pocket. By this brilliant 
flank movement he has reduced the number of the 
enemy from six to flve. Fortune favors the brave, 
and Larry is happy. 

Already Avis has closed the door after him, and 
secured it, so that Larry flnds his bridges burned 
behind. It is just what he wants. “Makes a fellow 
desperate, you know,” he is accustomed to remark 
when speaking of the matter later. 

He turns and leaves the cabin behind. The foes 


WHAT HAPPENED ON DECK. 


139 


whofn he seeks to disable are on deck, and there 
the battle must be fought that will decide the ques- 
tion as to who will have possession of Doctor Jack’s 
wife. 

A minute later and Larry’s head pushes up above 
the deck as he ascends the companion-way, having 
made his passage forward. 

Voices sound near him, and he can distinguish 
every word. Lord Rackett and the captain of the 
yacht are talking. The British lord is in a towering 
passion because half the crew are ashore, when 
they should be aboard every night at nine. He 
even threatens to clap on sail, and, taking advan- 
tage of the favorable breeze, desert the sailors on 
shore. 

Larry can guess whence his eagerness to quit 
Valparaiso arises. Lord Rackett fears the venge- 
ance of an outraged husband ; he dreads lest at any 
moment the figure of Doctor Jack may rise up in 
front of him, calling to account the man who stole 
his wife. 

Using his eyes to advantage, Larry counts the 
figures on the deck as seen by the light of the lan- 
terns and the neavenly bodies. He makes out six 
still — that is, just two apiece all round. 

“Well, here goes,” mutters the dude, shutting his 
teeth hard, for Larry has never been a soldier, and 
is not accustomed to shooting down men on sight. 

It requires a thought of the rascality which has 
been infiuencing these men to steel his nerves and 
render him fit for duty. 

“They deserve death,” he mutters, but all the 
same he aims low down, seeking to give a flesh 
wound that will place his victim hors de combat, 
which is all Larry asks. 


140 


WRAT HAPPENED ON DECK, 


The silence of the night is suddenly broken by 
the sharp report of a revolver. A jet of flame flashes 
up from the companion-way, and the fellow at 
whom the leaden messenger is sent, rolls upon the 
deck, hugging his leg, and almost delirious from 
the shock, for pain he certainly does not yet feel. 

Of course, at this abrupt outbreak there is the ut- 
most consternation on deck. Men call out and rush 
this way and that with a vague idea as to the source 
of the attack. Some have seen the flash of the 
weapon, and advance to overwhelm the marksman. 

Larry is ready for business, and calculates that 
he can cut the number of their mess short when he 
fires again, as he will do just as soon as he can get 
the hammer of his fire-arm into position, for the 
weapon does not appear to work as well as it 
should. 

That single shot has served as a signal. 

Two human forms come tumbling on deck, clam- 
bering over the side of the yacht near the stern. As 
they gain their feet, the fact is established that 
these new-comers are above the medium in height, 
and possessed of extraordinary powers of locomo- 
tion to judge from the manner in which they ad- 
vance. 

This advent brings new cause for astonishment, 
since it has been so unexpected. The sailors seem 
to be between two fires, so to speak, and hardly 
know whether to turn upon those who rush down 
the deck with the fury of a mountain avalanche, or 
face the spot where belched forth the spiteful flash 
of flame that accompanied the telling shot. 

When men are thus undecided, and caught in a 
trap, they are in a good condition to be easily beaten. 
It is almost as if they are already on the run. 


WHAT HAPPEI^ED OE DECK. 


141 


Larry again comes to time— Larry, who has made 
up his mind to keep snapping the hammer of his 
faithless weapon until the revolving cylinder brings 
a cartridge within reach that will do its duty. 

There is another report, and this time a bullet 
enters the arm of a British sailor man, who, armed 
with a belaying-pin or marline-spike, has rushed up 
to demolish the enemy lurking in the companion- 
way. It at least renders him less aggressive, since 
the arm that is stricken chances to be his right. 

By this time the two flying figures have cleared 
the deck, and are upon the party. The stentorian 
voice of the English lord is heard, calling upon his 
men to rally and repel hoarders. He is at least a 
man, though far from being a credit to his nation. 

What will it avail? The man who dashes upon 
them has his iron arm doubly strengthened by the 
knowledge of his wrongs. He is like a tigress rob- 
bed of her whelps, and in her native jungle — a 
wounded lion at bay. A score of men would not 
dismay him now — might not overcome this young 
giant from the great republic of the north. 

Besides, he is ably seconded by the man from 
Texas, Kirke Smith, who has tamed horses, chased 
Apaches and Mexican cattle-thieves, and lived a 
wild life on the great plains of the South-west. 


142 


**YAGHT AEOYf' 


CHAPTER XIX. 

‘‘YACHT ahoy!” 

By this time Lord Rackett begins to realize some- 
thing of the truth, which staggers him. He has 
taken note of the flying figures before now, but sup- 
posed they were some of his own men — that the 
boat from the Mole had returned with the delayed 
seamen. 

It suddenly flashes upon him that this is not the 
case. Perhaps the rapidity of Doctor Jack’s ad- 
vance has something to do with this revelation, for 
not one of the yacht’s sailors cares enough for the 
master of the vessel to thus approach with lion-like 
bounds. 

Plympton realizes that his situation is inclined to 
be desperate, with enemies on both sides. He does 
not know what to make of the attack from the com- 
panion-way — whether it proceeds from one or more 
foes. He believes Larry to be still safe in the state- 
room, and here are more foes advancing. 

Xo wonder he feels bewildered with danger from 
so many sources around him. He endeavors to turn 
the attention of his men to the new seat of war, 
and succeeds, in a measure, as they face that way. 

Another instant and Doctor Jack is upon them. 
He comes with business in his frame and the deter- 
mination to succeed in his eye. Who can resist 
such impetuosity? 

Already two of the sailor men have been wounded 


YACHT AHOY!' 


143 


by the bullets of Larry Kennedy, and can hardly be 
called in the ring, which reduces the number of 
the enemy considerably. Larry does not jump up 
and show himself, for he believes such a small man 
would not figure in a hand-to-hand contest. Better 
leave it with those who know how to deal with such 
matters, and lying where he is, await the turn of 
events philosophically. 

Doctor Jack, ably seconded by Kirke Smith, is 
now among his enemies. He strikes to avenge his 
wrongs, and those who come within range of his 
arms suffer the consequences. It is all so sudden 
that they have no time to prepare, and, taken off 
their guard, fall an easy prey to the aggressive 
American, who belabors them right and left. 

Larry afterward declared that it reminded him of 
a ball bounding into the midst of the ten pins, and 
scattering them in every direction. 

Here a man goes bowling over, sprawling his 
length upon the deck of the yacht. Just beyond, a 
second sailor endeavors to grapple with the man 
who is the cause of all this commotion, but Doctor 
Jack has no desire to seek close quarters, and stands 
the fellow off with the skill of a champion. 

One there is who has cause for complaint, and 
this is Kirke Smith, who cannot see that Jack means 
to leave him any share in the little game. As for 
Larry, he enjoys the sight hugely. It is a rare treat 
with him to witness the discomfiture of the enemy, 
after his recent experience with them. 

Doctor Jack, in the course of his energetic ad- 
vance, finally runs against milord, who has not 
tried to beat a retreat, knowing that the only escape 
is to jump overboard, or else run below and hide, 
both of which alternatives he scorns to favor. 


144 


*^YACHT Auorr 


His stalwart figure bars Jack^s triumphant way, 
and the two come in contact. Under ordinary cir- 
cumstances the British bull- dog might have been 
something of a match for the American, but not 
now. Doctor Jack has been aroused to tiger-like 
ferocity by the abduction of his wife, and a dozen 
Lord Racketts could hardly stand before him. 

The result is never for an instant in doubt. The 
Englishman has believed himself a master in the 
art of self-defense, but here he finds his guard 
broken down by the very impetuosity of Jack^s at- 
tack, and himself beaten to the deck. 

“All down!” sings out Larry, from his place of 
concealment, when the last man has thus given 
way before Doctor Jack’s onset. 

“Larry!” calls out the doctor, with a great wave 
of eagerness in his voice. 

“On deck!” replies the dude, crawling over the 
top steps and gaining his feet, when he is immedi- 
ately swooped down upon by a regular hurricane, 
as Jack clasps his arms around him. 

Surely the lights of Valparaiso harbor never shone 
upon a more singular scene than the one that has 
just taken place. 

“Avis?” springs from Jack’s lips. She is the first 
thought in his mind. 

“ She is well— and safe behind a locked door,” it 
gives Larry pleasure to say. 

“Thank Heaven for that!” wells from the heart 
of the almost distracted husband. 

Of course, his first thought now is to dive down 
into the cabin, and claim his own. Indeed, Doctor 
Jack has even taken a couple of steps in that direc- 
tion when he comes to an abrupt pause. 

There is cause. 


**YACHT AEOrr 


145 


Loud voices are heard over the side of the yacht, 
and, from this circumstance, he knows one of two 
things have occurred. Either a boat-load of sailors 
from some man-of-war, attracted by Larry’s firing 
and the sound of conflict, have come to investigate, 
or else the missing seamen, belonging to the 
Briton’s yacht, have returned at this unfortunate 
hour. 

That the latter is the case Jack believes. 

Here is another question rudelv and suddenlv 
brought forward for solution. These sort of emer- 
gencies test a man’s caliber, and fortunately Doctor 
Jack is equal to them. 

Lord Rackett has not been knocked senseless by 
the blow received, although partially stunned, and 
these voices reach his ear also. Then comes the 
hail : 

‘‘Yacht ahoy!” 

He raises himself from the deck with one hand, a 
fierce joy taking the place of despair in his heart. 

“This way, Danton! We are boarded! To the 
rescue, British bull-dogs! Ten pounds to every 
man, if you clear the decks!” he almost shrieks, in 
his delirium of rage. 

The men in the act of clambering over the rail 
hear, as do their comrades still below in the boat. 
Probably they have only a vague idea as to the true 
state of affairs, but the sounds wafted over the water 
as they drew near the yacht must have warned 
them that something unusual was taking place. 
Besides, they have not sailed with milord all this 
time without discovering his weak points, and no 
doubt have been concerned in more than one affray 
on account of him. 

His exceedingly liberal offer fires their blood. For 


146 


YACHT AHOYV 


that amount they would assail even a trio of imps 
from Tophet. 

After all the conflict has apparently only begun, 
and Doctor Jack has another engagement on his 
hands before he can claim the victory. 

He realizes this, and instead of waiting to be at- 
tacked, rushes toward the men who are clambering 
over the rail. His advance is very like the impetu- 
ous sweep of a blizzard, and some of those in his 
way are apt to believe there is a strong comparison 
between the two. 

This time Kirke is resolved to be in the game, and 
reaches the scene of action about as soon as his 
companion. He gives the first man he runs across 
a push that causes him to lose his balance and fall 
with a splash into the briny water. 

The scene for a minute or so is a peculiar one. 
The sailors boarding the yacht pop up here and 
there in their desperate attempts to climb the rail. 
Some dodge back when one of the Americans rushes 
that way, while others endeavor to stand guard, 
and as a consequence are knocked into the water, 
from which they emerge, dripping wet, to crawl 
over at some more distant point. 

The scene of disturbance gradually widens until 
it becomes impossible for the friends to take care of 
the rail longer. Their enemies will manage to craw] 
over in spite of them, and they must soon expect to 
be confronted on all sides, assailed hip and thigh. 

Doctor Jack does not desire to use his levolver, 
save as a last resort. These men are British sailors, 
not African savages, and although in the service of 
a man for whom he has only detestation, still they 
are only doing their duty as hired seamen. 

When he realizes that, there promises to be a 


YACHT AHOrr 


147 


sure general engagement, Jack calls to his compan- 
ions, who spring to his side. His mind is upon Avis, 
and, when it is settled that they had better retreat, 
he immediately decides upon his course. 

“Let us go below,” is what he says. 

The way to the cabin is close at hand, and from 
the threatening manner in which the sailors ad- 
vance it is evident that whatever they expect to ac- 
complish must be done speedily. 

Larry leads, for his knowledge of the premises is 
such that he is in a position to take charge of his 
companions. 

They have no trouble in reaching the interior of 
the cabin. Jack immediately closes and fastens the 
door, which is still in a serviceable condition. 

“Keep watch, Kirke,” is all he says, but the man 
from Texas knows what it means, and woe to the 
party who attempts to enter. 

Doctor Jack turns upon Larry. 

“Which door is it?” he asks, huskily. 

“Wait — she may fire,” warns the dude. 

His eyes betray the answer to the question. 

“Not when I can call out,” returns Jack, as he 
bounds to the door. 

“ Avis — open !” 

Her ears catch the tones. He can hear the glad 
expression she gives, the cry of intense joy that 
wells from the heart. Then trembling hands unlock 
the door. It swings open, and Doctor Jack clasps 
his own. 

Tenderly he folds her in his arms, which have 
long been her shield, those strong arms against 
which the tidal waves of hate have beaten in vain. 

Larry busies himself. He seizes hold of the little 
brass gun, and drags it into the cabin, where it 


118 


** YACHT AHOY!' 


at once attracts the attention of the doctor and 
Kirke. 

‘‘What under the sun have we here?” 

“ Only a trifle, but it may keep the Britons out. I 
threatened ’em with it before.” 

“ I see you’ve loaded it heavily. It may be more 
dangerous at the breech than the muzzle,” says 
Jack, smiling, as his eyes fall upon the amazing 
variety of missiles that peep forth from the mouth 
of the cannon. 

“No danger of that. I loaded for business. When 
it goes off this cwaft is doomed, by Jove!” declares 
Larry, proudly. 

“ Then let us delay the discharge as long as pos- 
sible, since we have our present abode on board, 
and hardly care to go down to the bottom of the 
sea, or of Valparaiso harbor.” 

“Hark! what’s that?” says Larry, suddenly. 

All listen and can hear a variety of sounds, such 
as can have but one meaning. 

“Getting underway,” declares the Texan, un- 
easily. 

“Then it is time we made a move,” says Jack. 


BOJV THEY WON. 


149 


CHAPTER XX. 

HOW THEY WON. 

This sudden change in the situation demands en- 
ergetic measures to meet it. Once the yacht is 
underway, and out at sea, they will have no chance 
to escape. At least it will be a dozen times more 
difficult to accomplish. 

Doctor Jack runs to the window in the stern, the 
same at which Larry used the point of his carver 
upon the legs of the dangling sailor. 

Through this streams the light from the cabin, 
and he is enabled to see two boats astern — the one 
tney have used in coming from the shore, and an- 
other. 

If they were only safe in one of these, how thank- 
ful they would be. What pleasure it would afford 
them to head for the Mole, or, better still, the 
steamer that sails at daybreak. 

Is it possible to accomplish this? 

Doctor Jack pokes out his head, and looks aloft. 
He sees no signs of danger about. It is quite pos- 
sible that all the men are employed in getting up 
anchor and attending to the numerous duties which 
sailing involves. 

Under these circumstances it would seem that 
they stand a show at least. Jack, the athlete that 
he is, twists his body through the window, and 
standing with his feet on the sill is able to look upon 
the deck. 


150 


HOW THEY WOE. 


As far as he can see everything is favorable to 
the success of their enterprise. He bends down to 
speak to those within. 

“ Kirke, see if you can get hold of a line and pull 
a boat in. Then drop into it, and hold up against 
the stern.” 

The Texan comprehends just what is expected of 
him, and without wasting time reaches out a long 
arm. Unable to accomplish what he sets out to do 
from that point, he swings his body entirely out- 
side, and with his foot reaches one of the painters. 

Then the boat is dragged up, while Doctor Jack 
keeps watch above. Kirke drops into it after secur- 
ing a clutch upon the vessel. 

“Ready, Jack,” he says. 

There is plenty of noise or commotion on board 
the yacht, which is fortunate, as it helps to drown 
any they may make. 

All is readv for the next move, and Jack has de- 
cided before now, in his mind, what it will be. Avis 
does not hesitate to meet him half-way, for she 
knows what he means to do. 

“Shall I try to make the transfer. Jack?” is what 
she asks. 

“Yes, dear. Larry, help her all you can, as I am 
unable to leave my position. Even now I fear they 
suspect our move,” returns the doctor, stooping for 
the moment. 

He can feel a movement below, and knows Avis 
is passing through the cabin window with the rare 
tact she usually displays. He has no fear about her 
reaching the boat in safety, for Kirke is below and 
Larry above— both of them can be depended on in 
the emergency. 

What engages Jack’s immediate attention is an- 


HOW THEY WON. 


151 


other fact. Some of the sailors are at work at the 
windlass, dragging the anchor out of the mud, while 
still others set the sails. Even at this moment the 
mud-hook must have been dragged out of its bed, 
for the yacht begins to move gently through the 
water. The wind only comes in flaws, and at pres- 
ent it is nearly calm. 

Given a few minutes more, and the plans of the 
Americans must succeed; but it begins to look 
stormy. Some one comes toward the stern. Jack 
sees the tall flgure, and knows this to be the owner 
of the yacht. 

Whether Lord Kackett suspects the truth, or is 
only coming aft to make a general survey of things 
in that quarter, it does not matter — the result will 
be the same — discovery. 

It cannot be avoided, so Jack presumes he might 
as well take the reins in his own hands, and start 
the fun. He waits a little, as every second counts 
now. Once Avis is in the boat, Larry can swing 
over, and only Jack will remain. When he passes 
the Rubicon, the quick slash of a knife will free 
them from the yacht. 

The breeze begins to puff up a little, more the 
pity, and no doubt Kirke will have need of all his 
powers to hold the row-boat steady. 

One glance Jack gives back of him, and this 
shows’ that progress is being made — Avis is just in 
the act of passing into the boat— in a few seconds 
she will be safe. 

Small though this space of time may appear, 
great events can be crowded into it. History repeats 
itself in proving this fact. 

Lord Rackett advances. His step even quickens, 
as though suspicions fly into bis brain. He has 


152 


BOW THEY WON, 


come about far enough Doctor Jack thinks, as he 
elevates his arm. 

The next moment the Englishman utters an ex- 
clamation of sudden astonishment as he makes a 
discovery. Then comes a flash of Are almost at his 
feet, accompanied by the quick detonation of a 
Yankee revolver. The lead actually burns his lord- 
ship’s ear as it speeds by. Just as Doctor Jack has 
intended it should when he took that sudden aim. 

Thinking he has been hit, and at least come very 
close to death, the Englishman whirls on his heel 
and dashes forward, at the same time shrieking at 
the top of his voice : 

“ This way ! They escape by the stern ! Bring the 
yacht to! Send her oft' on the wind! We’ll swamp 
the boat! We’ll drown them all!” 

Fortunately the man who now clutches the wheel 
and holds fast to it, keeps his senses, or these con- 
tradictory orders might have resulted in disaster on 
board. 

Another glance Doctor Jack shoots over his 
shoulder as he clings there, standing like a rock be- 
tween the one he loves and danger. This shows him 
how far matters have progressed. 

Avis is safe in the boat. She makes her way back 
to the stern, even while he looks. Larry has suc- 
ceeded in dropping over the back of the Texan, and 
just saves himself from going overboard, a'fe they 
are beginning to cut through the water with some 
speed. 

This shows Doctor Jack that the time has come 
for him to act. He can see several men rushing to- 
ward the stern in response to the shouts of Lord 
Eackett, and his first thought is to keep them back. 

It would be difficult to explain what ideas flash 


EOW THEY WON. 


153 


through his mind in that second of time. Perhaps 
he even conceives that they might fire upon the re- 
ceding boat. Men in a rage will do many things 
that their better judgment warns them against. 

To prevent this is his first thought. He even has 
the means in his hand, and will not hesitate to em- 
ploy it. 

Without attempting to take aim, he begins to dis- 
charge the remaining chambers of his revolver. 
One, two, three, four, five shots in rapid order like 
the pulsations of a heart quickened by excitement, 
for the weapon is of a new model, the hammer 
being thrown into position ere the discharge is 
made. 

Such a fusillade coming from one quarter is 
enough to demoralize the stoutest heart, and even 
these stout British sailors dread to rush forward in 
the teeth of what seems to be a storm of fire and 
lead. 

Each man believes his comrades are being mowed 
down on either side of him, and that his turn will 
come next. Hence, the feeling of intense alarm that 
sweeps over them. As if seized with a common im- 
pulse they throw themselves upon the deck. Vain 
are the shouts of the valiant Lord Eackett, who 
hides behind a mast and urges them on. It would 
take more than ten pounds to make most men rush 
on certain death. 

Jack laughs as he sees how well he has accom- 
plished his purpose. The time is ripe now to finish 
his work. 

Hot another second should be lost. Kirke Smith 
still maintains his clutch, but it is telling upon him 
terribly. 

The breeze freshens^ and the yacht, with a por- 


154 


HOW THEY WON, 


tion of her sails set, dashes through the water like a 
thing of life, dragging both boats behind. 

Of course, there is danger of swamping. The 
foam rushes along the sides, and even splashes over 
at times. Avis sits there, silent yet resolute. Her 
eyes are bent upon the figure clinging to the stern 
of the yacht, so that she has little thought for the 
peril of her own position. 

That figure now makes a move as if his work in 
the quarter above might be done, and Avis holds 
her breath when she sees her husband stoop 
down. 

It is no small feat he has before him — everything 
combines to make it difficult — dangerous. Doctor 
Jack fortunately possesses a quick eye, steady 
nerves, and a sure hand. He is eminently qualified 
to grapple Avith conditions that would dismay most 
men. 

When he thus bends down he finds the brave 
Texan under him. Words pass between, for it is es- 
sential a plan of action should be laid. 

A mistake just now might cause a terrible dis- 
aster, and bring ruin upon what gives promise of 
being a grand success. 

Jack has received a quick, affirmative answer to 
the question he put, and this settles the question so 
far as he is concerned. 

He throws himself upon Kirke, who is flattened 
out in the bow. The weight forces a groan from the 
Texan, but he maintains his death-like grasp upon 
the rope, until the cheery voice of Doctor Jack as- 
sures him that the latter is safe in the boat. 

Then by degrees he lets the rope out until they 
are being towed by a straight line. Towed at a re- 
markably swift pace, the churning, foam-fiecked 


HOW THEY WON. 


165 


water dashing over their bow, while it momentarily 
threatens to ingulf them. 

It has come to a point now when all that is re- 
quired is the keen edge of a knife laid across the 
painter, to divorce them from the flying yacht. 
Doctor Jack takes the place of the Texan ; he has a 
knife in his hand, and the glimmering light from 
the cabin window shows that it is open, ready for 
the business ahead. 

He watches his chance, for it is necessary that 
they should cut loose at the proper time when 
mounting a wave. The sailor men on deck have re- 
covered their wits. They are even now advancing 
to the rail, as the steersman calls out the situation 
of affairs. Lord Rackett, too, looms up against the 
background of white sail. 

What care Doctor Jack and his friends. They 
have accomplished the main part of their labors, 
and but one stroke now remains to be given. 

The knife lies on the cable. Jack’s e^-e keeps on 
the watch for his chance. It comes, and the muscu- 
lar arm that can send a blow out from the shoulder 
like that of a steam sledge-hammer presses the steel 
downward. 

There is an electric shock, a whip-like snap as the 
stout painter parts, a shout from the deck of the 
flying yacht, and then the boat rolls there in a sea 
of foam. Already the Texan has hold of the oars, 
and they fall just in time to steady the craft, per- 
haps to prevent a capsize. 

Like a Flying Dutchman the yacht vanishes from 
view. All that can be seen is the light from the 
cabin window, looking like an eye of fire over the 
waves, and growing rapidly more distant and in- 
distinct. 


166 


ovebboaud. 


CHAPTER XXL 

OVERBOARD. 

The Panama sails early in the morning, with our 
little party of four aboard. It looks as though they 
have left all dangers behind at Valparaiso, and 
their future seems as fair as the glad October morn- 
ing that greets them as they steam past the United 
States cruiser Baltimore and the Chilian men-of- 
war in the harbor, heading for the open sea. 

There are many passengers on board, a number 
of refugees having been received from the Balti- 
more just previous to sailing, to be landed in Peru. 
All that the Chilian authorities particularly care 
about is that Balmaceda and his great treasure do 
not leave the country. True, strange reports of the 
late President’s death have come from the snow- 
capped Andes, across which he is said to have fled 
toward Bolivia, but it is hard to convince these 
people that the Dictator, likened unto Louis Na- 
poleon in their history, is dead. 

Our friends have little desire to mingle with the 
crowd, and keep pretty much to themselves. Dur- 
ing the first day Doctor Jack makes a discovery 
that gives him some uneasiness. 

He has enemies on board the steamer. Men who 
seek to regain that which he has carried away from 
Chili, and who are members of the secret society of 
the nitrate mines. He recognizes them, sees the 
ugly looks they give him, and knows that all danger 
has not been left behind at Chili. 

These men are sworn to follow him, to outwit the 


OVEmOABD. 


167 


American, and either wrest his possession from him, 
or have his life — a pleasant prospect, indeed, for 
Doctor Jack. 

Doctor Jack is treated to another surprise at 
noon, and it comes from his wife. They have lin- 
gered at the dinner-table, being both good sailors, 
while a number of passengers are already in the 
grasp of the wretched mal de mer. 

Jack leaves his wife chatting with a Spanish lady, 
the wife of one of Balmaceda’s former ministers, 
while he goes on deck for a smoke. 

In ten minutes she rejoins him, and, to his sur- 
prise, he notes an anxious, troubled look upon her 
fair face. 

“ Why, Avis, dear, you do not feel well?” he asks, 
quickly and tenderly. 

“ It is sickness of the mind, then, not the body. 
Jack, for you know the motion of the grand old 
ocean never affects me.” 

“ Something troubles you. Avis — tell me what it 
is — nothing serious, I hope?” 

She smiles now. 

“You may laugh at me, Jack, but I have a pre- 
sentiment of dark days ahead. Of course, my sex 
gives me the privilege of such a feeling. You men 
say it comes from a fit of the blues. Never mind. 
All I know is that the presence of that fascinating 
creature on board the Panama troubles me.” 

Doctor Jack starts and looks grave. 

“Avis, you don’t mean the Senorita Marilla.” 

She nods her head, and looks solemn. 

“It may be only a coincidence that causes her to 
be on board this steamer. A great many people find 
it healthy to leave Chili just now, and she may 
have been on the losing side.” 


158 


OVERBOABD. 


But Avis cannot be convinced; she sees some 
dark design in the presence of this Chilian beauty 
who would take her Jack from the one who loves 
him with all her life. 

“How comes it you discovered her presence when 
no one else has seen her?” he asks, presently. 

“By mere accident. I knew there was a lady in 
state-room 23, for the minister’s wife told me so. 
Chancing to be passing when the stewardess was 
opening the door, to carry in some toast and a cup 
of tea, my eyes fell upon a face I shall ever reniem- 
ber as the most beautiful as well as the most dan- 
gerous I have ever seen. Marilla de los Vegos it 
was. I believe her presence on board this steamer 
is no accident, but part of a deep laid plan.” 

Doctor Jack is secretly worried himself, but for 
the sake of his wife he assumes to make light of 
the whole affair. Thus the afternoon passes and 
night comes. The steamer plows her way through 
phosphorescent seas, every drop seeming like molten 
silver as it falls upon the black surface. 

Doctor Jack and his wife promenade the deck 
until a late hour, when Avis goes to her state-room 
feeling drowsy. Her husband wishes to smoke an- 
other cigar ere turning in, and seeking a retired 
spot indulges in deep thought. 

A step behind causes him to turn his head. 

“Jack!” says a voice. 

“I’m here, Kirke,” recognizing the dark figure. 

“ Thought I saw you come this way. I want a few 
minutes chat with you,” 

“ Good 1 What better place than this could you 
find. Sit down, my dear fellow. Have a weed?” 

“Thanks. I’m done smoking for to-night. Doc- 
tor, I have made a discovery.” 


OVERBOARD. 


159 


Jack turns and eyes him in the peculiar light 
from the Southern Cross and such heavenly bodies 
as chance to beam upon them. 

“Indeed! What is it like?” 

“ There are passengers on board not strangers to 
you, I reckon.” 

“So — you have seen her, too,” remarks Jack, 
with a laugh, for he does not fear the beautiful 
Chilian half as much as does Avis. 

“Her? I don’t catch on quite.” 

“Don’t you mean our handsome Chilian tigress — 
the woman who sees something in J ack Evans that 
strikes her fancy as to what manner of man she ad- 
mires — in a word, Senorita Marilla?” 

“You don’t mean she’s aboard?” 

“Why not? This steamer is free to all who can 
pay for accommodations. Avis has seen her.” 

“Well, I can easily believe it since the rest of the 
gang are here.” 

“Now, it’s my turn to ask your meaning.” 

“Easily answered. We have as fellow-passengers 
Lord Rackett Plympton ” 

“ Confusion!” 

“ And Colonel Leon Garcia, the fire-eater of the 
victorious Chilian Army.” 

Doctor Jack smokes in silence for a minute, but 
his thoughts are busy. 

“ This looks bad. I thought we’d give them all 
the slip; but, by Jove! our enemies go with us. It 
may make a difference in my plans.” 

“ Dangerous crossing Panama with such a gang at 
your heels, ready to do anything in order to ac- 
complish their end.” 

“Still I must reach New York in time. A vast in- 
terest demands my presence there at a certain day. 


160 


OVERBOARD. 


I shall, perhaps, have to keep on board the steamer 
until California is reached, and then cross the Con- 
tinent by rail,” musingly. 

“Not a bad idea— much preferable to crossing at 
Panama. I believe at Aspinwall you would be mur- 
dered without fail.” 

“ Ah ! you know considerable about the canal. I 
believe you had some connection there.” 

“Yes. I’m something of a civil engineer, and 
worked a year on the ditch. Of all the hard places 
on earth, command me to the towns at either end of 
the isthmus. With such forces working against 
you. Doctor Jack, and the elements their gold can 
buy up on the isthmus, it would be suicide for you 
to try the passage.” 

“ Tell me. When and how did you discov^ that 
these men were on board?” 

“A short time ago — two figures passed me as I 
leaned over the rail — it was dark, and they probably 
failed to notice me. I thought a voice I heard 
sounded familiar, and listened, when I soon learned 
the truth.” 

“Could you tell what they talked about?” 

“Not enough to decide, but it had some reference 
to you.” 

These things combined cause Doctor Jack to be- 
lieve the fates have trouble in store for an individ- 
ual about his size. He can grapple with difficulties as 
well as the next man, and does not lose that admir- 
able self-possession that has long been his heritage. 

Kirke, the Texan rover, who has led a wild life in 
many climes, is really more concerned over the 
matter than Jack. 

“We must keep our eyes open, comrade. These 
rascally pirates mean us harm,” he says. 


OVERBOARD. 


161 


“Come, Kirke, I never knew you to worry or 
flinch before.” 

“I’m thinking of your wife, Jack,” quietly. 

The doctor bites his lip. 

“You may be sure she is on my mind, old friend. 
There are three of us. Surely we should be able to 
protect her ; and we will, mark me,” with the ring 
of steel in his low spoken words. 

“Turn around. You can just get a glimpse of the 
two men up yonder, outlined against the heavens.” 

“I see them, and recognize milord’s flowing side 
whiskers. At once Larry’s envy and detestation,” 
returns Jack, in a whisper. 

The figures above vanish presently, but leave a 
peculiar influence behind, which Kirke in his odd 
fashion likens to the odor of sulphur. At any rate, 
their presence on board the steamer is suggestive of 
evil. 

Jack grows quite uneasy, and soon tosses his 
cigar overboard as though it has lost its flavor. 

“Good-night, Kirke. See you later.” 

Truth to tell, he fears lest something might happen 
to Avis with these elements around. 

Another day dawns and all is well. Doctor Jack 
looks in vain for the two men. They prefer to avoid 
him at present, though sooner or later he is bound 
to come upon them. 

It is evident that the Englishman has abandoned 
his yacht at Valparaiso in order to follow the man 
he hates and the woman he adores. This alone 
stamps his motives as full of venom. 

The worst may be expected from a man who could 
thus make sacrifices in order to accomplish his end. 

So the day passes. A pleasant day, too, which is 
enjoyed by the travelers. 


162 


OVERBOARD. 


Again it is night. 

Men who plot evil love darkness, and when the 
night has settled down it may be expected that 
those wdio hide from the light of day, and the eye 
of Jack Evans, will be on deck again, to talk and 
plan, perhaps to work. 

Jack has talked it all over with his brave wife, 
and Avis knows the danger that menaces them. 
She is on her guard, and armed. Lord Racket t may 
find he has come in contact with fire should he seek 
to give her trouble. 

The night threatens storm. ” Black clouds drift at 
intervals across the heavens, and the wind has 
arisen, so that the waves begin to roll. 

There is something fascinating to Doctor Jack 
about the dark masses that rush hissing and seeth- 
ing along the side of the steamer. He has never 
grown weary of watching their passage, and lean- 
ing over the rail. 

While thus engaged in meditation, he hears the 
sound of footsteps behind him. Of course it is Kirke, 
who left his side a little while before and promised 
to return when he had investigated certain things. 

So he does not turn his head, and nothing warns 
him of the danger hovering near. 

The first that Doctor Jack knows of his peril is 
when some weapon comes down upon his head ^vith 
crushing force. At this very instant it seems to 
him he hears a woman’s scream above the whistle 
of the wind through the rigging. Then rude hands 
seize him by the legs, he is given a toss, whirls 
through the air, and after one unsuccessful clutch 
at the rail, falls into the surging billows as they 
come foaming and hissing from along the vessel’s 
side, eager to clutch their prey. 


TMAT JADE— FORTUNE, 


163 


CHAPTER XXII. 

THAT JADE — FORTUNE. 

Doctor Jack does not cry out. Indeed, such a 
thinp: is beyond him, for the blow, delivered with 
considerable power by the arm of hate, together 
with the salt water that rushes into his mouth when 
he dips into the sea, are enough to prevent it. 

He at once rises to the surface, striking out man- 
fully to keep afloat. Though unable to shout, he 
casts his eyes upward and sees two forms bending 
over the rail — that of a man and a woman. In the 
former he recognizes the English athlete— the 
woman is not Avis — then she must be the Chilian 
beauty. 

Something splashes beside Doctor Jack. He puts 
out his hand instinctively, and it falls upon a life 
preserver. Without doubt the senorita has tossed 
this over. If she could not save the man she loves, 
arriving on the scene just too late, she can at least 
do this much for him, and Doctor Jack will in the 
future feel less disposed to despise the Chilian girl. 

Even when his hand grasps the cork buoy the 
steamer rushes from him as though eager to desert 
the American. He ejects the water from his threat 
and cries out, but his voice sounds so very feeble 
with the wind and waves battling against him that 
it could never be heard fifty feet away. 

Then even the lights of the steamer are lost to his 
vision, as a wave rolls between, and Doctor Jack 
Evans is face to face with about as deadly a peril 
as ever beset his pathway. 


164 


THAT JADE-FORTUNE. 


He slips the life preserver on, and, as his shoes 
seem heavy, his next act is to remove them, secur- 
ing them to the cork float. 

The danger is great, and death seems very near 
the intrepid traveler. Does he flinch? He has every- 
thing to make life pleasant — money, health, and a 
loving wife. The thought of Avis forces a groan 
from his lips, but, taken in all, he meets the terrible 
danger with calmness. It may be the offspring of 
utter despair, that grim setting of teeth and quiet- 
ing of nerves that marks the soldier’s rush to death. 

Eagerly he looks beyond every time he rises on a 
wave, indulging in a vague hope that his absence 
may have been discovered, the steamer stopped, 
and boats lowered. 

This hope gradually forsakes him as time passes 
without his discovering any light. Then follows 
despair, for Doctor Jack is human, and this danger 
is one so entirely different from anything he ever 
experienced before. 

The storm fortunately is not severe, else would he 
have perished. Now and then billows break over 
him, but, as a general thing, he rides their crests. 

Thus the dreary night drags on, the minutes 
seeming hours to the wave-tossed Yankee. He 
longs for dawn to come, not that he has much hope 
of seeing a vessel, for crafts are not plentiful on the 
Pacific in these parts ; but the darkness renders his 
position doubly irksome. 

At last the streaks of dawn appear, and by de- 
grees the gloom passes away. Doctor Jack still 
finds himself buffeted about by the waves, which, 
however, have not increased in violence, although 
the sky is clouded over. 

His eyes scan the surface of the sea on all sides, 


TEA T JADE-m )B TUNE. 


165 


but nothing meets his view. Even a glimpse of land 
is denied him. 

The day begins, and its hours pass like lead to 
the drifting American. He knows the folly of try- 
ing to swim, and saves his strength. 

At about three o’clock as near as he can judge, 
he makes a discovery. Some object is floating near 
him. He can see it with every wave, and at once 
begins to push in that direction. When he discov- 
ers the nature of the floating object that a wonder- 
ful Providence has sent within his reach. Jack 
flnds new hope. He begins to believe that after all 
he may be saved, and that his time has not yet 
come. 

It is a boat. 

Washed from some vessel’s deck, or drifting from 
some harbor, it comes to his hand as though a 
strange destiny brought it. His hand clutches the 
side, and with a tremendous effort Doctor Jack 
drags himself into the boat. 

What a glorious feeling it is to have stanch planks 
between one’s feet and the heaving sea. He lies 
there for some time resting. The sun peeps out and 
begins to dry his clothes. This stirs him to life 
again. He sits up and examines the craft which 
Heaven has sent to his assistance. 

There is an oar under the thwarts and a small 
mast and sail lashed to them. A jug attracts his 
eye. Joy, it is full of fresh water. He quenches his 
thirst, and feels a thousand per cent, better. In a 
locker at the stern he discovers a rude basket, open- 
ing which he flnds some food, enough for several 
scanty meals. Truly, he must be favored of Heaven. 
Those who fight against him will need the powers 
of Satan to gain a victory. 


166 


THAT JADE-FORTUNE. 


When night closes in again, he has his sail set 
and heads to the north-east. Such a course will 
bring him nearer land at least. He dozes through 
the night, sound sleep being out of the question. 

Another day opens with a squall that almost sends 
him to the bottom. Doctor Jack’s stout heart be- 
comes cold with sudden alarm, but his steady hand 
guides the little boat, and he saves her. 

Later on he makes a remarkable discovery. In 
the basket he finds a small kerchief, and on it a 
name he worships — Avis. 

Eagerly he presses it to his lips as he realizes that 
her hand has had much to do with the opportune 
coming of this life-boat. He remembers now, see- 
ing such a craft on board the steamer, it having 
been picked up adrift. 

There could be but one chance in a million that 
man and boat would come together, yet the faith of 
a woman has sent the craft to his rescue. 

How he breathes her dear name in an ecstasy of 
devotion. Did ever man have so sensible a wife be- 
fore? Will a kind fortune bring them together 
again? 

He feels cheered and invigorated by the discovery 
just made. It gives him new life to keep up the 
good fight. 

Thus another day passes, and night finds him sail- 
ing on in the old course, headed north-east, with a 
gentle wind wafting him on. 

Again he dozes,, for the day has been warm, and 
Jack’s rest has been terribly broken of late. From 
one of these cat-naps he is aroused by some sound, 
and sits up suddenly. 

Surely that must be the whirl of a steamer’s 
screw, that churning sound he hears. Doctor Jack 


THAT JADE— FORTUNE. 


167 


twists his head to the right as far as it will go, and 
gives a groan because he discovers nothing. 

Then he turns on the left, looks eagerly, and re- 
ceives an electric thrill. 

The Pacific is almost absolutely still, save for a 
long glassy swell, and not a sound proceeds from 
its untroubled bosom. Perhaps half a mile away 
Jack sees lights. They are refiected from the water; 
they move steadily on, while that churning sound 
continues. 

“It is a steamer!” he ejaculates almost fever- 
ishly. 

Perhaps he imagines it may be the Panama, which 
has perchance been cruising around the spot at 
which he was lost, and is now pursuing her regular 
course, bound north. 

At any rate, it is a steamer which passes by and 
threatens to leave him. 

How can he draw attention from those aboard; 
fortunately Jack has considered this question be- 
fore, since it was just as possible that he might 
meet a vessel in the night as during the day. 

An old newspaper covered the basket, and this 
he has twisted until it promises to make a fair 
flambeau or torch, when a match is lighted and 
applied. 

About his head he waves this flaming torch, form- 
ing all sorts of extraordinary hieroglyphics in the 
air. At the same time he raises his usually stento- 
rian voice and shouts. Alone it would never succeed, 
but the spark of fire as seen at a distance draws at- 
tention. He keeps it up until the paper is exhausted, 
while his voice grows husky with shouting. 

Then he discovers to his extreme joy that the 
steamer no longer shoves through the water. She 


168 


THAT JADE -FORTUNE. 


has come to a stand, and loud orders float over the 
water to Jack’s ear. 

Ah ! the boats are being lowered. Soon they will 
pick the lost traveler up. How his heart is thrilled at 
the prospect of a meeting with his dear wife; for as 
yet he does not suspect that the steamer can be any 
other than the Panama. 

Gruff voices call, he answers as best he can, and 
lights dance over the water heading toward him. 
Then a boat looms up, and Jack shakes hands with 
the officer in the stern sheets. 

This party is an utter stranger, and here he re- 
ceives his first hint that the steamer arriving so op- 
portunely may be another vessel than the Panama. 

He has undergone much, but it is the mind that 
is wearied more than the body. 

In flve minutes he reaches the steamer, and clam- 
bers aboard where the captain meets him kindly. 

‘‘Come to my cabin, sir,” he says, when his first 
officer has assured him there is no one else in the 
small boat. 

Once there it remains for J ack to make a discov- 
ery that pleases him. 

“Can this be Captain Washburn?” he exclaims. 

“ That is my name, sir, but you have the better of 
me. And yet, duse take it, where have I seen you? 
Bless my soul, can it be possible this is my friend. 
Doctor Jack Evans?” 

“ Right you are, captain. I’ve come to you over 
troubled seas. How under the sun do I And you 
here, and what vessel is this?” 

“The tramp steamer Itasca, in which I have 
bought an interest, bound for California with a 
mixed cargo. How, tell me your story, man.” 

“It is a long one, captain.” 


THAT JADE— FORTUNE. 


169 


“Then let us wait until you are in the humor. 
Take a glass of this to put life in you. The steward 
will soon put a meal before you.” 

So Doctor Jack finds himself in good hands and 
well looked after. With invigorating food his 
strength returns, and the captain soon hears all he 
has to tell. 

Jack is, of course, anxious to overtake the Pan- 
ama, but the chances seem against them, as the 
other steamer has several days the start. If they 
reach a port, he may at least learn some news, and 
this buoys his spirits up. 

So they steam on, heading for Quito, where the 
tramp steamer expects to do some business. She 
flies the British flag, of course, and will go com- 
pletely around the world ere reaching her starting 
point, Liverpool, again. 

One evening they sight land, and pushing on 
enter the harbor of Quito at dawn. Doctor Jack 
rushes on deck eagerly, glances about him at the 
town and the hills, and then gives a shout, for there 
not fifty yards away is anchored the Panama, with 
men working at some broken part of her propeller. 


170 


AFTER THE STRANGE PACKET. 


CHAPTER XXIII. 

AFTER THE STRANGE PACKET. 

Upon sightng the steamer that carries his wife, 
Doctor Jack experiences a revolution of feeling, 
such as perhaps comes upon a man but once in a 
life-time. All his doubts and fears vanish, and he 
is filled with joy and enthusiasm beyond measure. 

As speedily as possible he secures a boat and is 
taken ashore, transferred to another craft manned 
by some natives, and in a short time finds himself 
alongside the Panama. 

A dangling rope is all he needs, and up he goes 
like a monkey. Once more he treads the familiar 
deck. His heart is almost in his mouth, as he starts 
in the direction of the cabin. 

The first person he meets, as luck will have it, is 
milord, who at sight of him appears tremendously 
astonished. 

“Bless my soul, can it be you. Doctor Jack, or 
your ghost?” he says, and the American, believing 
as he does that Lord Rackett is the cause of his re- 
cent experience, cannot but admire his self-posses- 
sion and assurance, for it must be a tremendous 
shock to him. 

“You can see for yourself, milord,” he says, coldly. 

“Doctor Jack, I’m dused glad to see you turn up. 
We are enemies in one sense, man, but hang me if I 
want to see even the fellow I hate worst on earth 
treated like that. The rascal clipped you on the 
head, and had you overboard before one could say 
Jack Robinson.” 


AFTER THE STRANGE PACKET. 


171 


The American realizes now that milord desires it 
to be known that he had no hand in the villainous 
game, yet, remembering the clutch upon his ankles, 
and how readily he was tossed over the rail. Jack is 
far from convinced. 

“You saw me go. over, milord?” he asks, curtly. 

“ Ay, and rushed to the side to see you struggling 
there. It happened that another also saw the ras- 
cally deed — the Senorita Marilla. Woman’s wit is 
quickest. By Jove! while I gaped she had the good 
sense to toss a life preserver overboard. Then we 
lost sight cf you. ” 

“ Ah, indeed I My dear Plympton, why didn’t you 
seek the captain, and have the steamer brought to? 
A boat lowered might have found me.” 

The Englishman smiles, and strokes his luxuriant 
whiskers. 

“I was so filled with horror, by Jove! that for a 
minute I could not move. Then I hunted for the 
captain. Inquire of him and you will learn that I 
appeared before him out of breath, and announced 
the sad news. The steamer was stopped, boats low- 
ered, and hours spent in searching, but it was of no 
avail, and every one believed you were lost.” 

Very plausible this, but subsequent investigation 
shows Jack that about an hour elapsed between the 
time of his accident and the exact minute the Eng- 
lishman appeared in such a disturbed state before 
the captain. 

It is very difficult to find the commander on board 
a steamer, you know. 

During this hour the vessel must have passed over 
about fifteen miles, so that the chances of their dis- 
covering Jack upon the heaving sea were about one 
in ten thousand. 


172 


AFTER THE STRANQE PACKET. 


The American pushes past, for he has no desire 
to continue the conversation, since his heart beats 
like a trip-hammer at the thought of reunion with 
Avis. 

Hardly has he left milord than Jack runs across 
some one who falls upon him with vehemence, who 
wrings his hand like he might a pump-handle, 
laughing and crying the while as if hysterical. 

Of course, it is Larry, and the little fellow shows 
his extreme pleasure in every word and look. 

A few sentences from Jack gives him an idea of 
what happened, and then it is the doctor’s turn to 
ask questions. He learns nothing new, but hears 
how Avis has suffered during the days that have 
elapsed since his disappearance. The full particu- 
lars he will know later. As he suspected it was by 
her orders the boat was sent adrift to find him if 
Heaven was kind, and guided by the strange fate 
that has ever watched over his fortunes, it came to 
the man who would have perished but for its aid. 

Avis with her own hands packed the basket just 
as Jack suspected, and her tears wet the little ker- 
chief she dropped into it, while praying that Heaven 
might guide it to him. 

This was done while the steamer lay to, some fif- 
teen miles away from Jack. 

Leaving Larry, the doctor makes his way to his 
state-room, eager to embrace his own. Beaching it 
he pauses to listen. Avis is an early riser. She has 
already been in the cabin, so the steward tells him. 

A few seconds he listens to her moving about 
within, and unable to longer control his eager hand 
he knocks. There is a peculiar significance in his 
manner of doing this which Avis must recognize. 

Hardly have his knuckles repeated the knock 


AFTER TEE STRANGE PACKET. 


173 


than he hears a slight scream within. Then a figure 
comes flying to the door with all the swiftness of 
love. The frame of wood that separates them is 
dashed open. A pair of gray eyes distended with 
thrilling hope, a white face marked by eager antici- 
pation, followed by a pair of plump arms that fasten 
around his neck tightly — this is the welcome that 
greets the returned voyager. 

‘•Oh, Jack!” 

That is all she can say. Words do not count for 
much at a time like this, but her heart is attuned 
with happiness and thanksgiving for the wonderful 
blessing Heaven has seen fit to bestow upon her. 

Doctor Jack notes that several curious people 
gather in the cabin. He is pleased with their hearty 
congratulations, but desires to avoid their gaze at 
present. So he draws his now weeping wife — her 
tears are for joy — into the state-room where, with 
his strong tender arms around her, they can talk in 
peace. 

Much is said. Jack learns all that has passed 
since his mishap. He is more than positive that the 
English athlete it was whose hands took hold of his 
ankles, and with such an easy toss sent him over- 
board, whoever may have struck the stunning blow 
he received. 

It is thought best, however, not to mention the 
fact promiscuously, as he cannot prove the accusa- 
tion, and it will do no good. 

Later on they go out on deck. To every one Doc- 
tor Jack tells the same story, that he was struck on 
the head and thrown overboard by some unknown 
party. This agrees with the story the Englishman 
has told when he sought the captain of the steamer 
one hour after Doctor Jack’s mishap. 


174 


AFTER THE STRANGE PACKET. 


Much speculation is indulged in, but no one 
guesses the truth. 

Only for the accident to the Panama’s screw, 
which necessitated a delay of several days at the 
Peruvian port, Jack might not have overtaken his 
wife for weeks. There is a sad lack of telegraphic 
facilities in these South and Central American 
countries that causes travelers infinite trouble. 

The northern voyage continues, and as the days 
pass on they draw nearer to the California coast. 
Doctor Jack, warned by the attempt on his life, be- 
come more cautious. He only ventures on deck at 
night in company. There are a number of men on 
board who seek his downfall, and it pays him to be 
careful. 

He has heard an interesting story from Avis, 
which proclaims the fact that there are those near 
who have sworn to secure the package Kirke Smith 
brought in, and which Jack seems to value so 
highly. 

On the very next evening after his disappearance, 
while Avis, almost distracted by the various emo- 
tions that naturally took possession of her, was on 
deck talking with Larry, some one entered her 
state-room and tumbled things about in a search. 

Fortunately she had given the package to Kirke 
Smith to take care of, so the search was in vain. 
On another occasion Larry caught a Chilian trying 
the door of his room. The man upon being ques- 
tioned declared he was sitting reading in the cabin 
when he heard a distinct cry for help coming from 
that state-room, as he believed, and thinking some 
one might be in trouble had endeavored to open the 
door. Of course, Larry knew this was a story 
hatched up for the occasion, but the fellow told it 


AFTER THE STRANGE PACKET. 


175 


with such a plausible air he forgave him, though 
marking the man for future observation. 

Doctor Jack now begins to count the days and 
figure on the time which must elapse before he 
reaches New York. Indeed, as his plans mature, 
he even loses some of his old coolness, and shows a 
little feverish anxiety that astonishes those who 
have been accustomed to seeing him so calm even 
under extraordianry occasions. 

He and Kirke have many consultations — alv/ays 
in the latter’s state-room. They take turns remain- 
ing below, and are never on deck at the same time. 
They have something to guard there, something 
that represents Doctor Jack’s fortune, and which 
grows more valuable to him with each passing hour. 

Thus he endeavors to find out what day they are 
apt to land at San Francisco, how long it will take 
to make the trip across the country to New York, 
and various other points that indicate his desire to 
reach the city on Manhattan Island at an early 
date. 

He even wanders down to the engine-rooms and 
converses with the chief officer in charge, makes 
calculations with him, and while not bribing him, 
receives assurances that the steamer will do her 
best from that hour on. 

Perhaps he believes Jack has a large bet on the 
result. Such things often occur on board trans- 
atlantic steamers, for the passengers are a hetero- 
geneous crowd, and many among them cannot exist 
without some sort of excitement. 

Larry amuses himself as best he can. There 
are a goodly number of passengers, but they con- 
sist, for the most part, of refugees. 

Perhaps the fact that such a constant surveillance 


176 


AFTER THE STRANGE PACKET. 


is kept up prevents their enemies from making 
further attempts upon the strange package. A 
steamship is limited in its quarters, and discipline 
is maintained on board with such severity that men 
with evil intentions hesitate about carrying out 
their desires. Escape is next to impossible. 'No ex- 
press train can be boarded which will carry them 
beyond danger — around them the wide ocean — on 
board a captain who is at once judge and jury, 
king for the time being over the little realm he 
rules. 

So these restless spirits keep quiet. They, too, 
make plans and organize a great conspiracy against 
the man whom tlie sea gave up. Whenever occa- 
sion offers they spy upon him as he saunters the 
deck with Larry or his wife, greedily picking up a 
few words here and a few there that may serve as 
straws to show which way the wind blows. Doctor 
Jack has a mighty torrent to cross before he finishes 
his journey and reaches New York in safety with 
the packet Kirke Smith brought in. 


THE MAN FOR EMERGENCIES, 


177 


CHAPTER XXIV. 

THE MAN FOR EMERGENCIES. 

‘‘Land in sight!” 

This glad cry is passed around the steamer one 
morning about ten o’clock, and as usual produces 
some excitement. Glasses are brought into use, 
and all sorts of guesses made, both concerning the 
nature of he land so dimly seen on their starboard 
bow, almost ahead, and the time that must elapse 
ere they reach their destination. 

Doctor Jack, wise man that he is, goes directly to 
headquarters and is speedily in possession of all the 
facts known to his friend, the captain. They will, 
barring accidents, and tides being favorable, drop 
anchor off the city of San Francisco some time that 
evening. 

During the afternoon all the travelers get their 
belongings in shape for a move. After the long 
voyage every one appears happy at the prospect of 
stepping on terra firma again. 

Doctor Jack’s brow is clouded at times, for the 
steamer was thrown from her course by a storm 
safely weathered three days back, and considerable 
time was lost in regaining it, so that when he fig- 
ures on reaching New York in person by noon on 
the fourth day of November, he has a Herculean task 
before him. What is unfortunate he can find out 
nothing of the train time-table on board, and this, 
in a measure, accounts for his eagerness to land, in 
order to make investigations. 

The day wears away, and gradually the land 


178 


THE MAN FOH EMETiQENCIES. 


opens up, so that without a glass they can see its 
beauties. San Francisco lies there like a gem set in 
a ring, her stately buildings flashing in the light of 
the setting sun that gilds their many windows until 
the scene looks like one of enchantment. 

Then dusk creeps on, and the good vessel makes 
a spurt as though anxious to reach the goal ahead, 
where a thousand electric lights mark the site of 
the wealthy city. 

Doctor Jack and his wife are on deck, ready to go 
ashore just as soon as possible, when the health 
officer permits. Jack chafes at the thought of this 
delay, and growls at the regulations which the 
health and customs officials make use of to build a 
hedge around all incoming travelers. 

Doctor Jack has under his coat, and fastened se- 
curely to his body, the flat package which Kirke 
Smith delivered to him in Valparaiso, but it is far 
from his intention to smuggle jewelry or any other 
valuables into the States, yet that which he carries 
is worth a fortune — to him. 

Nearer still the steamer advances, slowly creep- 
ing* past the rocks, under the guidance of the pilot 
who knows every foot of water in these parts. The 
lights no longer dazzle them, as a whole, but each 
individual one stands out on its own merits. 

To the impatient souls on board it seems as though 
their progress is snail-like, but at last the anchor 
goes down. They are immediately boarded by sev- 
eral officials, and for this Doctor Jack is at least 
thankful. 

A few formalities are gone through with, when a 
dozen passengers descend to the tug, which will 
take them with their effects ashore. 

Jack glances at his watch, and notes the time 


THE MAN FOR EMERGENCIES. 179 

with an uneasy feeling, as though he apprehends 
trouble. 

Great traveler that he is he has not been in San 
Francisco before, and must depend upon others for 
a knowledge of facts. Hence, when a man pushes 
forward and offers the use of his hack. Jack points 
to a couple of leather portmanteaus, their only bag- 
gage, and opens the door of the vehicle for Avis to 
enter. 

In two minutes all is ready. The driver comes to 
the door for his orders, which J ack gives, he is posi- 
tive, in plain language. 

Just as the fellow turns away, he finds his arm 
grasped and hears a low, fierce voice say : 

“Would you like to earn fifty dollars, man?” 

Well, for half that sum a San Francisco hackman 
would peril his soul, to say nothing about his body, 
and Jehu replies instantly: 

“You bet!” 

He sees at his side, endeavoring to keep in the 
shadow, so that those in the vehicle may not dis- 
cover him, a tall, distinguished gentleman, un- 
doubtedly an Englishman. 

This worthy immediately puts some bills in his 
hand, bills that amount to the sum specified. 

“What am I to do?” demands the driver, prob- 
ably in doubt as to whether he must run away with 
his load, or dump them somewhere so they may be 
robbed. Which job he hardly likes, as the appear- 
ance of Doctor Jack and the Texan indicate men of 
resolution, bold fighters, and parties not to be be- 
trayed with impunity. 

“ Take them to the wrong station. They want to 
go East. Manage it so they miss the train, and the 
money is yours. Can you do it, man?” 


180 


TEE MAE FOR EMERGENCIES. 


Jehu gives a gurgling laugh, and says: 

“ You bet ! Dead sure ! ” 

“I’ll be on hand to see how you come out,” with 
which the Englishman dodges into the crowd just 
as Larry pokes his head out of the hack window, 
squeaking in his high voice. 

“Say, fellah, why don’t you make haste? By 
Jove! now, it would be too bad you know, if we 
missed our twain — by Jove!” 

“Missed it,” roars Jack, aroused, “well, there’d 
be the dickens to pay.” 

Whereupon they start, and the driver feels a 
little uneasy over his position. True, he has the fifty 
dollars stowed away in a pocket, and that would be 
balm for many a hauling over the coals, but some- 
how he fears that these tourists are inclined to be 
desperate people. 

They have come in on a British vessel, but he re- 
cognizes fellow-Americans. The Texan gives him 
an uneasy feeling, while Doctor Jack awes him. 

It happens, however, that Jehu is a reckless sort 
of man, and he believes he can earn his money and 
escape before they discover the mistake. At any 
rate, it can be called an error on his part. 

They move along. 

No one can complain of the slow rate of speed, for 
Jehu drives his horses like a man wdio intends 
reaching his goal. Our friends feel that they will 
get there in plenty of time, and all seem easy in 
their minds — all save Larry. 

That worthy appears to have a spirit of unrest. 
He bobs his head out of the window a dozen times, 
scans the. lamp-posts as they pass, and in various 
ways manifests something more than curiosity. 

At length they pull up, the driver drops the two 


TEE MAN FOR EMERGENCIES. 


181 


leather portmanteaus from above and is presently 
at the door. His game is to receive his pay, mount 
his vehicle, and dash away before his victims dis- 
cover how he has left them stranded at the wrong 
station. 

This is a very nice idea, but Doctor Jack imme- 
diately knocks it on the head. 

“ Remain in the vehicle, friends, while I run and 
see about the train. If we are left we may have to 
go to the Palace Hotel.” 

The driver grits his teeth at having his plans 
foiled, but dares say nothing. He would give a 
good deal to be able to crawl out of sight just then, 
dreading Jack’s return. 

Doctor Jack is gone just three minutes, and then 
he appears in view, rushing toward them with furi- 
ous strides, his face dark, his manner alarming, at 
least in the eyes of the guilty Jehu, who trembles in 
his boots. 

Straight up to him Jack steps and demands, in a 
low but terrible voice, what he means by taking 
them to the wrong depot. 

The fello w plays his part fairly well, but it takes 
the quick eye of Doctor Jack to read between the 
lines. 

“You are telling me what is false. I demand the 
truth. Were you hired to bring us here? Admit it, 
and I will not harm you. Persist in your denial, and 
you must take the consequences.” 

Something about his manner assures the driver 
that there is but one course for him to pursue. Doc- 
tor Jack has a way about him of convincing men 
with whom he has dealings that it will be to their 
interest to obey his will. 

So the fellow falters out a half-way confession. 


182 


THE MAN FOE EMEEGENCIES. 


endeavoring to screen himself, as well as he can, at 
the expense of truth. 

Jack brings him to a halt in the midst of his 
effort. He has no time to spare. 

“ Take hold here — up with it — now the other. Off 
for the Union Pacific station, man.” 

He makes no threats, but his voice and manner 
are both terrible, and the driver fears he has got- 
ten himself into a serious mess. An idea strikes 
him that may save his neck. 

Using the whip vigorously, he sends his team and 
vehicle across the city to the main station about as 
speedily as a hack has ever been known to travel in 
San Francisco. Hills are surmounted on the jump. 
Jehu seems determined to remedy his mistake, if 
such it could be called. Secretly, he knows full 
well, the sly rascal, that it is already too late. 

The manner in which they are dragged through 
the streets of the Golden City prevents any conver- 
sation inside the coach. 

At any moment the vehicle is apt to give a lurch 
that may send them forward. Jack has thrown 
that strong left arm of his • around Avis, while he 
braces himself to meet any crisis. Unless there 
comes an upset, all will be well. 

This rocking, dragging, reckless movement is 
kept up for some little time, when suddenly the 
vehicle draws up near the curb. Jack looks out, 
and sees by the many lights that they have arrived 
at their destination. 

He feels for the handle of the door, but after find- 
ing it is baffled a little. Still the driver does not put 
in an appearance to help him. At last Jack suc- 
ceeds, and leaps out. 

The secret of the driver’s failure to come to his 


THE MAN FOR EMERGENCIES. 


183 


assistance is explained. Jehu is not on the box, nor 
can he be seen. Evidently the man’s fears have 
gotten the better of his valor. As soon as he brought 
his vehicle to a stop, he dropped down and deserted 
it. 

This does not bother Jack. He is more vitally con- 
cerned regarding a train just now. 

So he whips the two small leather trunks from 
the boot of the vehicle with as much ease as though 
they were hand-bags. 

By this time Larry is on the pavement, with Kirke 
beside him, and Avis appears. 

As Doctor Jack shoulders a portmanteau, Larry 
makes for the other, but finds the Texan ahead. 

“Look out for Doctor Jack’s wife. ITl take care 
of this,” says Kirke, quietly. 

Leaving the deserted hack they bustle into the 
station, smiling at the odd appearance which they 
undoubtedly present, but business allows little re- 
gard for looks, and Doctor Jack snaps his fingers at 
such things as this. 

Straight to where they see some official in the 
uniform of the railroad company they proceed, and 
there Jack drops his burden. 

“Are we too late for the eastern train?” he asks. 

“Unfortunately, yes. ■ It left fifteen minutes ago,” 
is the discouraging reply, but Doctor Jack has pre- 
pared himself for this emergency. 

“It is of the utmost importance that I should 
overtake that train, sir.”* 

“It is our fast express, sir, a flyer.” 

“Never mind. I will engage a special.” 

“An expensive business, my dear sir.” 

“Hang expense, man. Direct me as to what I 
shall do.” 


184 


TEE RACE ACROSS THE CONTINENT, 


CHAPTER XXV. 

THE RACE ACROSS THE CONTINENT. 

The official takes a-nother look at Doctor Jack and 
makes up his mind this man is fully able to stand 
the racket. Besides, he discovers something fa- 
miliar about the other. 

have met you before, my dear sir.” 

“Very likely. I have traveled much.” 

The official is eying him steadily. 

“Were you in Spain two years ago?” 

“Yes.” 

“Ah! I am proud to meet you. Doctor Jack. I 
won a wager on your success at that bull fight,” 
holding out his hand. 

“So did I,” remarks the doctor, with a glance in 
the direction of his wife. 

“And any favor I can do. Doctor Jack, I will be 
only too glad of the opportunity.” 

“Then see about the special as quickly as you 
can, sir. I have a tremendous amount of interest 
in overtaking that train.” 

“You will be on board. Doctor Jack, long before 
it crosses the Rockies, I give you my word ; but it 
may cost you half a thousand dollars.” 

“A mere bagatelle, sir. Jf I fail to reach New 
York by noon on November the fourth, it will prob- 
ably cost me a million dollars.” 

The official purses up his lips as if to whistle, but 
emits no sound. 

“A pretty close shave even if you are on time. If 


THE BACE ACROSS THE CONTINENT. 


185 


it were any one else than Doctor Jack I’d say it 
couldn’t be done.” 

“ I mean to do my best, and, as a general thing I 
have managed to succeed in the past. This special, 
sir ” 

“I have telegraphed already for the man you 
must see, and here he comes. An hour won’t make 
much difference. You will have only an engine and 
sleeper. The dispatcher will make out your schedule 
and give it to the conductor. Thus you will know 
just at what point you can overtake the eastern 
flyer.” 

This is very soothing to Doctor Jack, who begins 
to see the wrinkles being smoothed out of the 
rough road in front. He is soon deeply engaged in 
conversation with the gentleman who comes up. 
Every one seems to take a decided interest in him 
when they hear who he is. Sometimes it pays to be 
famous. 

The arrangements are speedily made, and our 
little party feel their spirits rise as they contemplate 
a solution of the problem that has so recently over- 
shadowed them. 

What does an hour count, when with a special 
they can rush over the rails like lightning. It is as- 
tonishing what money can be made to do in this 
world — at any rate, it lubricates the wheels and 
makes traveling a pleasure. 

Doctor Jack consults his watch as they arise from 
the lunch which has engaged their attention in the 
restaurant, more to pass the time away than be- 
cause they were hungry. 

“The hour is up,” he remarks. 

“Your train is ready. Doctor Jack,” says the offi- 
cial to whom he has been over. 


186 


TEE RAGE ACROSS THE COmiNENT. 


“Good!” 

The small amount of luggage is put aboard, and 
presently they enter the Pullman sleeper which is 
to be their quarters until the regular train is over- 
hauled. 

It is not an unusual thing for a special to be sent 
flying over the rails, and, according to the rules of 
the road, everything gives way to such a wizard 
traveler. 

The start is made. 

Once they clear the yards their speed increases, 
and presently they rattle along in a way that causes 
Kirke Smith some anxiety, for the Texan, quite at 
home on the wildest horse one could find, is not 
much of a railroad traveler, and holds his breath 
when he finds himself being whirled over some level 
stretch, or down a slight declivity at the speed of a 
mile a minute. 

And this is only a beginning. 

When the locomotive gets warmed to the work, 
more astonishing figures will be shown. 

As for Larry, this pleases him immensely. He 
lolls in a chair in the smoking compartment, and 
uses up numerous packages of cigarettes— a luxury 
he has been deprived of for some time, owing to the 
haste of their departure from Valparaiso. The 
others now understand the meaning of Larry’s 
wonderful smile, so child-like and bland, when he 
came in with bulging pockets, while they were at 
lunch. He had bought out the entire cigarette stock 
of the dealer in the station, resolved not to be left 
in the grand hustle across the Continent. 

Jack has secured pillows from the porter of the 
car, and has a lower berth made up for Avis^ who, 
feeling tired, will lie down for a time. 


THE RAG^ ACROSS THE CONTINENT. 187 

As for himself, he enters into conversation with 
the conductor, a bright, agreeable fellow, and picks 
up a number of facts connected with the route across 
the plains, some of which may prove valuable to 
him. 

“I wonder if, with this open window, I could in- 
dulge in a cigar. Join me?” he says. 

“With pleasure, sir. You can do what you please, 
since you own the car for the time being. Of course, 
we have a smoking compartment ” 

“Larry monopolizes that,” laughs Jack, lighting 
up. 

“What! that little man?” 

“Y7ith a fearful weed.” 

“Ah! I comprehend. You do not take to the 
cigarette, then?” 

“ I abominate them ; but Larry is privileged. He^s 
a great fellow. Let me tell you some of the things 
I’ve known him to do.” 

These are numerous enough to cause the conduc- 
tor to feel the utmost interest in the peculiar little 
dude, though finding it hard to understand how a 
hero can appear such an oddity. 

Their speed is terrific. 

At times they seem to actually shoot through 
space, such is the manner in which a fearless en- 
gineer can whirl a special on its way. 

Doctor Jack is deeply interested in the progress 
made, and makes a copy of the schedule which the 
conductor carries, of course subject to changes. A 
red light at a station may bring them to a halt, 
when a message brought aboard will govern their 
future movements. 

They slow up in passing a station, the conductor 
looks out, guesses the identity of the place, con- 


188 


THE RACE ACROSS THE CONTINENT 


suits his paper and announces that they are “on 
time. ” 

So the night ride goes on. 

What Jack fears most of all is some accident that 
may delay them. He knows the men with whom he 
deals, and would put no deviltry past them. If they 
learn in some way, as is certainly possible, that a 
special follows them, they can readily jump at con- 
clusions and understand who pays the bill. 

Jack believes a man would be dropped at some 
station with instructions to blow up the track, or in 
any way delay the special for some hours, even if 
compelled to ditch it. 

This he earnestly trusts will not take place. A 
train going seventy miles an hour takes chances 
enough under ordinary circumstances, without the 
attention of train wreckers. 

These thoughts would keep Jack from sleeping, 
even did he care to. He remains awake and specu- 
lates as to what he can do in case certain possibili- 
ties become realities. 

At just five minutes of one, as he is replacing his 
watch, a sudden shrill whistle sounds, and it is easy 
to feel the action of the air brakes. The train comes 
to a stand. They are just about a quarter of a mile 
from a village, where, as the conductor informed 
him, regular trains were accustomed to draw up, 
and receive telegraphic messages while the engine 
tank was renewed with water. 

Jack puts his head out of the window. The first 
thing he sees is a red lantern on the track just 
ahead of the locomotive. 

Here is aggravation, vexation, delay. 

He swings himself off the car, with Larry at his 
heels, to see what it means. Avis has appeared, 


THE RACE ACR088 THE CONTINENT, 


189 


and looks from a window, anxious because she 
enters into Jack’s plans with all her heart as a lov- 
ing and faithful wife should. 

When Doctor Jack reaches the spot where the 
red lantern is seen he finds there the engineer and 
conductor of his “special.” 

“What’s wrong?” 

The conductor is swearing, while the engineer 
keeps looking around as though he fully expects to 
see a band of daring road-agents appear in view. 

A rail has been removed — it lays near by across 
the track. Only for the red light those on the 
special would have been wrecked in a terrible man- 
ner. 

“Very considerate of the rascals,” says the con- 
ductor, puzzled and angry. 

“ I can account for it. All they wanted was to de- 
lay us,” and Jack tells his idea. 

“By Jove! what is to hinder us replacing the 
wail. Then it’s only a little time wasted?” and 
Larry tugs away at the long steel rail in a manner 
that, if quite ineffectual, shows his desire to accom- 
plish something. 

His words electrify them. The porter, fireman, 
and Kirke Smith are called, and in a few minutes 
the rail is in position. 

Every spike has been thrown away, but there is a 
claw for drawing more on the engine and a ham- 
mer for driving them home. 

Lanterns are not needed, since the brilliant head- 
light of the engine gives them all the illumination 
they could wish for. One picks out a spike here 
and there. The engineer sends them home with 
heavy lows. 

“All ready!” is announced. 


190 


THE RACE ACROSS THE CONTINENT. 


Thirteen minutes lost ! 

What would have perhaps paralyzed traffic for a 
time on many an European railroad, has been only 
an incident of thirteen minutes duration on this 
American trans-continental line. 

They hasten once more to board the special, and 
‘‘ forward” is the cry. 

Avis has a story to tell now, and when Doctor 
Jack hears it, he experiences mingled emotions, 
anger for his bitter enemies, and admiration toward 
his brave wife. It also makes clear the design of the 
parties who removed the rail. 

While the men were all at work in front of the 
locomotive, Avis, looking out of the window, heard a 
noise toward the rear of the car, and glancing in 
that direction, was just in time to see a man’s legs 
passing in at one of the windows which Larry had 
left open. 

Quick to comprehend the situation, and not deign- 
ing to call for help, Doctor Jack’s wife had opened 
her satchel and secured the revolver given to her 
long ago by the man who had also taught her how 
to use it. 

Then leaving her seat, she glided to the rear por- 
tion of the car. 

Looking into the smoking compartment, which 
Larry had pre-empted as his own pris^ate “den,” 
Avis is just in time to discover a dark-faced man 
examining into the sacred mysteries of the dude’s 
valise, while a comrade, half-way through the win- 
dow, seems ready to receive whatever spoils may 
be discovered. 

Avis Evans has no difficulty in making up her 
mind that these men are engaged in something that 
does not concern them. She does not stop to specu- 


THE liACE AOROaS THE CONTINENT. 


191 


late upon the facts — it is enough to understand that 
they mean robbery. 

A movement which she makes attracts the atten- 
tion of the man in the window, who, uttering a 
sharp exclamation, drops out of sight. His compan- 
ion, attracted by the cry, glances upward, and sud- 
denly remembers an engagement he has in another 
quarter, of such importance that he hardly knows 
whether he goes through the window head or feet 
first. 

Doctor Jack’s brave wife having thus disposed of 
the rascals, busies herself in closing every window 
of the car, which task she has hardly completed 
when her husband and his friends enter again ; at 
the same time their progress is resumed. 

Jack is able to put two and two together, and the 
result is one that satisfies him. 

‘'At least we leave a couple of our enemies be- 
hind,” he reflects, though forced to confess his 
ignorance regarding the number of foes ahead. 


192 


ON BOARD THE ^^SFECIAL. 


CHAPTER XXVI. 

ON BOARD THE SPECIAL.” 

Once more their speed is as swift as the wind that 
whistles down from the defiles of the mountains. 

The time lost will soon be made up, for the ex- 
press train ahead cannot begin to annihilate space 
as they do, so there is a constant gaining on their 
part. 

It is possible to figure out a victory again, unless 
their enemies hatch up some new form of devil- 
try to batfie them, which Jack looks out for. He 
believes the red lantern of warning was only placed 
on the track to alarm those on board the special 
simply because Doctor Jack’s wife was present. 
Only for this fact the special would have plunged 
into death — for to strike a broken rail when going 
at the rate of a mile a minute, means even more 
than death — annihilation. 

Avis sleeps no more. 

She is too thoroughly interested in the events go- 
ing on around her, for what concerns Jack interests 
her. She listens and even offers suggestions at 
times, which more than once appear to be timely, 
and are readily seized upon by Jack. 

All of them note the passage of time now, and 
figure on results. When the special is halted once 
at a station for new orders. Jack takes advantage 
of the short delay to ask questions, learning that 
the Rocky Mountain Overland Flyer express passed 
this point just twenty-five minutes before, being an 
hour and ten minutes late. 


ON BOABD THE *‘8PE0IAL: 


193 


This is cause for congratulation, since they have 
reduced the lead thus far more than half, and it be- 
gins to look as though before a great while their 
end will be attained. 

The night wears on. 

Several times something occurs to delay them, 
but Doctor Jack shows no signs of despair. He 
feels that his clutch is a long and sure one — victory 
must come. 

When morning arrives it finds them in a wild 
part of the mountains. They have left the green 
valleys behind. On either side frown the walls of 
great canons through which defiles the train dashes. 

So close are they upon the heels of the regular 
now that the engineer is compelled to keep a sharp 
lookout lest he run by accident into the express. 

When the fiyer stops at the next station they will 
be close behind, and possibly able to transfer. 

Jack exults in their speed. 

“Would that we could keep this up until New 
York is reached. There would be no question, then, 
of not being on time,” he laughs, as the car swings 
like a pendulum while tearing around sudden 
curves, until even Avis utters a low cry, fearful that 
it is going over, which, of course, is not the case. 

Then a long whistle announces that they are 
drawing near the station. The conductor has 
drawn their attention to smoke hovering above in 
the canon, which he says was left by the locomotive 
drawing the regular train. 

Heads are thrust from the car windows as they 
issue from the mountains — the station is half a mile 
beyond, with a good many cars around it. A freight 
has stopped upon a siding to let the regular passen- 
ger pass— but their eyes are seeking something else. 


194 


ON BORRD THE '^SPECIAL: 


‘‘She^s there!” exclaims Larry, and all of them 
can see a line of passenger coaches beside the 
station. 

“Confusion, no; the engine heads this way,” cries 
Kirke Smith. 

“ You^re wrong, comrade. That is the locomotive 
of the freight just peeping out beyond the last Pull- 
man,” puts in Doctor Jack, whose sight is better 
than that of either companion. 

Avis seconds him, and all feel like cheering as 
they run down the line and overtake the Overland 
Flyer, which has remained at the station five min- 
utes under orders to await the arrival of the special. 

There are some passengers on board who note the 
coming of this latter with anything but pleasure. 
Indeed, the deepest chagrin would be more apt to 
describe their feelings, since they have endeavored 
by every dishonorable means possible to keep Doc- 
tor Jack from traveling east on the only train that 
can possibly take him to New York by November 
fourth. Some people, indeed nearly all persons would 
have given up in despair when these difficulties 
arose like insurmountable barriers before them ; but 
we have seen how one man succeeded in riding 
over the worst and wins his Waterloo here at the 
station. 

The special comes to a stop, and a transfer is soon 
made. This time they do not have a car to them- 
selves, but there is plenty of room. Doctor Jack 
will not be crowded, and, if necessary, he would 
have engaged the sleeper which the special engine 
drew to take them on to Ogden and even Denver. 

Once more, forward. 

He knows he is now on board the same train as 
his foes. Milord and Colonel Garcia are in the Pull- 


ON BOABD THE SPECIAL:- 


195 


man with them. The latter looks out of the window 
when our party passes, but the unabashed English" 
man, with a spy-glass in his left optic, eyes them 
questioningly, much to Larry’s unbounded admi- 
ration, for he is able to pick up an idea or so here. 

Jack has time to think matters over. He believes 
his enemies, who have combined against him, will 
not give up the ship as long as he is west of New 
York. 

They have too much at stake to give up until the 
last prop is knocked away. The Chilians are banded 
by their league to fight for the possession of the 
packet, or at the least to keep Doctor Jack out of 
New York until the day which he has set upon 
reaching the metropolis has passed. Lord Rackett 
is urged on by his passions, and the vow he made 
to wed the widow of the American athlete. 

Even bitter enemies can travel in luxurious Pull 
man cars, and not come in contact. The battle may 
be one of looks and sneers. 

Toward the land of the rising sun this trans-con- 
tinental train speeds. Doctor Jack has a head on 
his shoulders that is worth something. When they 
take on a new locomotive, he is on deck and has a 
little chat with the driver. Perhaps a gold piece 
changes hands. At any rate, they all fancy the 
man of nerve, and the long train whirls from sta- 
tion to station on time. 

“You must be a wizard. Doctor Jack,” remarks 
the Pullman conductor, laughing. “It is many a 
day since I have gone through here with such a 
snap and vim. We start each time as though we 
meant business, but something throws us out of 
gear. Now, it is like a well-oiled piece of ma- 
chinery.” 


196 


ON BOAKD THE ^^SPECIAL: 


“Why do you lay it to me?” smiling. 

“ Ah ! I have eyes, sir. The fact of your hiring 
a special told us you particularly desired to get East 
on this train. Sometimes golden oil lubricates ma- 
chinery remarkably well.” 

Mght comes. 

Jack has kept an eye on those whom he has rea- 
son to watch, while his companions also remain on 
guard. Avis carries the packet now, in her small 
satchel, which is fastened by a strap over her 
shoulder. Who gets it must first kidnap Doctor 
Jack’s wife. 

More than once he has seen three men in consul- 
tation, and knows full well that they mean mischief. 

To delay him they would even wreck the express 
train, if it could be done without great danger to 
themselves. He has warned the conductor, so that 
in all probability sharp eyes will be upon the plot- 
ters, and they may be frustrated ; but such desper- 
ate men halt at nothing when determined to carry 
a point. 

Of course. Jack must sleep, but he has arranged 
with his companions for a system of watches, each 
one to remain on the lookout several hours. 

It is past midnight when Jack feels a hand touch 
him. He is only dozing, for the section has not been 
made up, though the curtains are drawn. 

Putting out his head, he sees Larry. The lamps 
are turned low in the car. Sounds of heavy breath- 
ing indicate that a number of persons at least are 
asleep. 

The train is at a stand. 

“What is it, Larry?” asks the doctor, quietly. 

“They’re up to some mischief, I’m afraid. Three 
of them went outside,” comes the reply. 


ON BOABD THE *^^PEGIAL: 


197 


Jack is immediately on the alert, and passes to 
the door, touching the sleeping Texan as he goes, 
and making a movement with his finger that Kirke 
readily understands. 

Larry follows Jack, while the Texan remains to 
watch Avis, to guard her if need be against lurking 
danger, and he will do it if any man can. 

As soon as the doctor steps from the car, he 
glances around to see where they are. The night is 
dark, but several lights burn at the station. 

A red lantern has halted the train, and upon mak- 
ing inquiries it is learned that some sort. of accident 
has happened ahead that may delay them a while. 

Doctor Jack begins to think fortune has leagued 
itself with his enemies, for he cannot believe this 
accident has been caused through any plans of 
theirs. He walks up and down the platform, count- 
ing the minutes, sometimes passing from the light 
into the shadow. 

Larry is seated on the step of the sleeper watch- 
ing his friend. The impatient engine throbs, and 
occasionally steam escapes with a savage hiss. 
Precious minutes are being lost, which must be 
made up again. 

Larry is anxious, too, though he fairly succeeds 
in disguising the fact by an apparently cool de- 
meanor as he smokes his cigarette. 

Suddenly he becomes aware of a certain fact that 
gives him a spasm of alarm. Doctor Jack has 
walked into the shadow, and, although three times 
twenty seconds — the usual length of his turn in the 
darkened spot — have passed, he does not appear in 
view. 


198 


‘ITS OUR TURN NOW.' 


CHAPTER XXVII. 

‘‘it's our turn now." 

Larry has seen nothing suspicious, nor has he 
heard any hostile sound. The hissing of steam from 
the iron monster at the head of the train would pre- 
vent this latter, and prove a splendid cover under 
which a desperate deed might be carried out. 

At the same time, owing to the peculiar circum- 
stances of the case, Larry fears that something has 
happened ; that the thread which holds the sword 
of Damocles suspended over the head of Doctor 
Jack has been severed. 

He leaves his seat, and with a hand on a weapon 
steps into the shadow. The glance he casts around 
him fails to bring any reward, since Jack is not in 
sight. 

Larry's alarm increases. Now he draws his re- 
volver, and hurries to the end of the platform. Once 
he fancies he hears voices, and starts in that direc- 
tion, but it turns out to be a couple of trainmen con- 
versing. 

A man is under the cars with a light and a ham- 
mer, testing the wheels, for with these fast trains it 
is necessary to take every possible precaution in 
order to prevent accidents. 

Larry's coolness vanishes. He even drops his be- 
loved cigarette, such is his anxiety to discover what 
has become of his friend. While he thus prances 
about, not daring to wander far from the train, as 
it may move at any minute the signal comes that 


‘‘irs OUR TURN now: 


199 


the track is clear, he catches sight of a moving 
figure. 

This is enough. In the darkness he cannot tell 
whether it be friend or foe, but, rushing up, he 
thrusts his weapon against the man’s side, while 
saying fiercely : 

“ Surrender !” 

“Why, Larry, old fellow, is it you?” comes a 
voice. 

“Jack — thank Heaven ! But you gave me a scare, 
man. What made you stwoll away?” 

Jack seems to be engaged in coiling up a rope, 
and Larry, when he discovers this, is doubly amazed. 

“ They tried it, Larry — and failed. Just as I stepped 
into the shadow a noose fell over my shoulders. I 
happened to have one hand up to my hat, so that 
Was free to draw a knife while I jumped forward in 
order to prevent being thrown. The fellows at the 
other end ran also. I got my knife out, opened the 
blade with my teeth, and cut the noose; but I 
caught hold of the rope, planted my feet against a 
rock, and we had a tug of war for a minute here in 
the darkness. 

“ Finding I was too much for them, and was drag- 
ging the rope in, they gave up and scampered, leav- 
ing me this trophy, which I hardly know what to 
do with.” 

“Take it aboard. Who knows how useful it may 
yet prove. Besides, it may tell us something about 
the fellows at the other end.” 

“Larry, correct. Was that whistle meant for a 
forward movement?” 

They run to the platform close at hand. The train 
moves, sure enough. After all, the delay was not 
so long, and can be made up. 


200 


*irs OUR TURN now: 


When they get into the car neither the Chilian 
colonel nor his British ally can be seen. 

“Egad!” says Larry, slapping his knee, “what a 
widiculous joke it would be if we turned the tables 
on them, and they are left behind.” 

Jack smiles. 

“That would be too good a thing, my dear boy.” 

He sees Avis looking out from behind the cur- 
tains, and motioning with her hand. Jack fancies 
she seems pale. He springs to her side. 

“What is it, dear?” he asks, tenderly. 

“Jack, while I slept a hand entered the half -open 
window and snatched the small satchel. I caught 
the strap, but the catch broke and the hand-bag is 
— gone.” 

Jack smothers a groan, and Avis continues 
quickly : 

“But, dear Jack, some good angel must have put 
it into my head that they coveted that' alligator bag, 
for when the curtains were first put up I trans- 
ferred the packet ” 

“Oh! Avis!” 

“To my bosom, where it lies now, safe and 
sound.” 

He throws his arms around her. 

“Bless you for a thoughtful little woman. They 
stand a poor show against both of us, with Larry 
and Kirke thrown in.” 

“It was also fortunate that I had my jewelry on. 
In fact, the contents of the bag, I believe, netted 
them some five dollars.” 

“They’re welcome to it. Why, the rope must be 
worth part of that,” laughing. 

“What rope. Jack?” 

“They tried to hang me, my dear,” and he relates 


^^irs OUR TURN now: 


201 


his little adventure, while Avis clings to him, trem- 
bling and breathless. 

“When will this end, husband?” she asks, for her 
nerves have been placed under a severe test during 
these few weeks. 

“Given four and a half more days and we will ar- 
rive in New York. Once there my hour of triumph 
comes, and these allied forces will no longer have 
cause to desire my downfall.” 

“Oh, Jack, I wish we were there!” she sighs. 

“For your sake I echo the wish, little woman,” 
fondly replies the man of steel. 

“I am so afraid something will happen to you.” 

“Ah, Avis, look back, my dear! You have seen 
me in many situations of danger. Was I ever out- 
generaled? A cool head and a steady hand have 
carried me successfully thus far, and with the help 
of Heaven they will not desert me now.” 

Cheered by these brave words. Avis regains much 
of her old-time confidence. This stout heart has so 
often won victories, it is no wonder she believes her 
Jack well-nigh invincible. 

Larry comes up at this moment, with a disconso- 
late look upon his face. 

“It’s no use,” he says, sadly, shaking his head as 
he speaks. 

“What’s wrong now, Larry?” asks Jack. 

“ They swung on at the last moment — in the smok- 
ing-room, now.” 

“ Sorry to hear it, but it’s what we expected. So 
far we’ve been a good match for all their forces. 
Let us hope it will keep on.” 

The balance of the night passes without more 
trouble, and our friends greet the new-born day 
with thankfulness. 


202 


*irs OUR TURN now:' 


Each hour takes them nearer their goal, and the 
enemy must continue to grow more desperate as 
time passes. 

It occurs to Jack that perhaps he can turn the 
tables on these plotters. By leaving them behind, 
he will at least be free from their miserable plot- 
ting, and have a fair chance to show up in New 
York on time. 

In Larry he has an enthusiastic ally when the 
idea is broached. Indeed, the little man can see no 
reason why they should not count on it as already 
settled. 

“ I believe in fair play. So far they’ve had all the 
fun. By Jove! it’s our turn now. Let me ponder 
over the matter, too. Perhaps I can hatch up a 
plan.” 

The mighty intellect of the dude sets to work, 
and, of course. Jack takes a back seat after that. 
Kirke is passing away the time by wandering along 
the entire length of the train, where, of course, he 
finds many types of human nature. His object is 
to discover, if possible, how many of the Chilians 
are on board, men who have come so many thou- 
sands of miles to outwit Doctor Jack. 

Avis is watching her cousin, and she suddenly 
gives Jack a nudge. 

“I think Larry has discovered something,” is 
what she says, and, glancing at the dude. Jack finds 
him with a broad smile upon his face, a veritable 
grin. 

‘‘Ah 1 he’s looking at himself in the glass between 
the windows. These fellows of his stamp are con- 
ceited enough. No doubt he believes he has a kill- 
ing expression on his face.” 

“That’s too bad, Jack, for he’s looking out of the 


‘irs OUK TURN now: 


203 


window. Larry has a great mind for schemes, 
though, perhaps, you wouldn’t think it to look at 
him. I know he has just hit upon some elegant idea. 
There, I told you so. He’s coming over to give us 
the benefit of it. 

“As true as I live, it’s so. If I faint during the 
recital, dear Avis, remember — the cordial.” 

“You cruel man— but I know you have in secret a 
high opinion of Larry’s abilities, though you may 
pretend to laugh now and then.” 

The arrival of the object under consideration at 
their seat prevents any further conversation. Larry 
it is, puffing out his cheeks with tremendous im- 
portance. 

“I’ve got an idea, my dear boy. Wait until you 
hear it — then congratulate me.” 

“With pleasure,” returns the other. 

Larry glances around him. He does not care to 
share his bright thoughts with those who may be 
enemies, and they are known to have a number of 
this class on board the limited train. 

The coast seems clear, yet Larry assumes a voice 
equal to a dramatic stage whisper in imparting his 
momentous secret. 

“I believe I can dwop the wascals behind, and 
give them a chance to hire a special,” he announces, 
at which Avis gently claps her hands, and Jack 
says: “Bravo, dear boy.” 

Larry tries to swell out with more importance, 
but it is impossible, since he has already reached 
the point of danger. 

“Now, listen to me, my friends, while I explain 
my idea. Of course, it must hold until night comes. 
Jack will get the exact time we stop at some sta- 
tion, Timing himself, he will leave the car. These 


204 


“ir’iS OUH TURN now: 


men can be depended on to follow. J ack must lead 
them a little chase, give them the slip, and run 
back to the twain as fast as he can. The second he 
puts his foot on the step, the conductor will start 
ahead.” 

“Ah! how d’ye know he will?” 

“Because you must have an arrangement with 
him beforehand, dear boy. That little part of my 
plan I have left to your ingenuity.” 

“ITl wrestle with it, and endeavor to do my duty,” 
says Jack, in mock humility. 

“That’s one scheme.” 

“ What I you have others, Larry ?” 

“Jove, dear boy, hosts of them. They bristle like 
quills on the back of the fretful porcupine. Here’s 
an idea that might come in later. We could ar- 
range for a special to be ready at Denver, where we 
lose half an hour. It would take us to St. Louis ii\ 
time to catch a twain in advance of the one regu- 
larly made.” 

Jack opens his eyes at this. 

“ Bless me, a splendid thought. If it comes to the 
worst I’ll have a talk with the conductor about it. 
What else, my dear fellow?” 

Larry has only started. He begins to describe 
certain unique plans for accomplishing the desired 
result, some of them so very original, that Doctor 
Jack is fairly staggered. 

“Hold on, I beg of you I Don’t bewilder me. Talk 
about your Cardinal Richelieu. He couldn’t hold a 
candle to Larry Kennedy,” and he really means 
what he says this time. 

“Then you will accept and twy one of these 
plans?” asks the proud inventor, twisting his dimin- 
utive whiskers with the air of a conqueror, 


‘Jr 5 OUH TVEN now: 


205 


‘‘All of them, Larry, in time, if necessary. But 
first we will endeavor to leave our friends, the 
enemy, to-night, with the aid of the conductor. 
There he comes, now. ITl talk with him a while.” 


206 


CHA81NQ A HAINBOW: 


CHAFER XXVIIL 

“CHASING A RAINBOW.” 

The conductor is, of course, inclined to be non- 
committal. He has heard much of Doctor Jack's 
story, and is deeply interested, ready to do all in 
his power to assist him, and yet at the same time 
fully aware that his duty will not allow him to swing 
trains at the whim of a passenger. All Jack desires, 
at present, is the assurance that there will be no 
holding the train a minute or two in order to allow 
belated ones a chance to get aboard. 

Here the iron rules of the road, which the con- 
ductor could not break for him, work in his favor. 

“When the time is up we start, if there are a 
dozen Englishmen wandering about,” he says, 
firmly, and Jack builds upon this. 

He also speaks about the special at Denver, and 
has the official figure to see whether it would count 
him anything at St. Louis. 

Thus the day passes. 

With the coming of night. Doctor Jack prepares 
to carry out his little plan whereby he will possibly 
shake off his worst foes for a while. 

They draw near the town where a short stop will 
be made. Jack knows just how long. Even now 
the engine gives a long signal whistle to warn the 
people of their coming. 

“Be very careful,” pleads Avis, looking a little 
anxious, as her husband shows some eagerness to 
be off. 


^^CHASINQ A RAIKBOWr 


207 


'‘Don’t be alarmed, dear. I shall keep just ahead 
of them, and lead them a wild-goose chase. Even 
if they should try to overhaul me, they are only 
two, and I am well armed; you know.” 

She looks proudly at him. Memory carries her 
back to many a scene where her Jack proved him- 
self a man in every particular. She has seen him 
master a black bull in the plaza de los toros, at 
Madrid, when no matador dared enter the ring— 
has watched him beat back a mob of rascals who 
waylaid the train by which they passed over the 
Pyrenees, and been near-by when he saved her 
brother from the vengeance of a Turkish pasha, 
meeting the Russian wolf-hounds in the garden of 
the palace and wresting victory from what promised 
to be defeat. 

All these and many other similar scenes flash be- 
fore her mental vision. No wonder she has the ut- 
most confidence in this man who twists difficulties 
that are seemingly insurmountable to his will. 

He waits after the train stops, just two minutes, 
timing himself so as to hit it just right. Lord Rack- 
ett and Garcia have alighted to stretch their legs. 
Larry reports that they are watching through the 
window, as though they do not mean to take their 
eyes off the little party. 

Doctor Jack arises. He gravely kisses his wife 
good-by, shakes hands with his two friends, walks 
to the end of the car, and steps off. 

Lord Rackett and Garcia have apparently al- 
ready taken the alarm, for they are not in sight. 
Jack strides away. His manner is that of one who 
travels no more at present. 

“What success?” asks Avis, eagerly, as Larry 
comes back to her side. 


208 


^CHASING A BAINBOW: 


“ The best, I believe. At any rate, I saw two dark 
forms gliding after him.” 

Doctor Jack's wife cannot help from showing 
anxiety, no matter what unlimited confidence she 
puts in him. 

‘‘What time is it, Larry?” 

He consults his chronometer. 

“Seven and a half after nine.” 

“And we leave here?” 

“At exactly nine-ten.” 

There remain two and a half minutes. Hours 
could not ordinarily seem longer to this devoted 
wife. There are times when we measure the pass- 
age of seconds by heart beats — when even a minute 
may seem an eternity. 

Larry walks up and down, trying to smother his 
own impatience, while Kirke Smith is on the plat- 
form keeping an eye about. 

At length Larry walks to the end of the car. The 
time is about up. A few more seconds and the train 
must start if the conductor is as prompt as he has 
promised to be. 

A hand touches Larry's shoulder, and, turning, 
he sees Avis, who has been unable to remain in the 
car, when so much is at stake. 

“Surely the time must be up,” she says. 

“Just.” 

Even as Larry utters the word, there is a whistle 
from the engine, a jerk of the cars— they move. 

Doctor Jack's wife holds her breath. 

If he has made a mistake of three seconds. Jack 
will not only leave his enemies behind, but be 
caught in the same trap. 

The train moves slowly at first, being a long one, 
but the momentum increases. 


CHASING A BAINBOW: 


209 


“There he comes!” exclaims Larry. 

A figure appears in view at the farther end of the 
station platform; a figure that delays not a second, 
but rushes across the lighted space after the train 
with a speed equal to a young cyclone ; a figure 
that the eyes of the loving wife instantly recognize 
as Jack. 

Will he reach the last car? The train moves faster 
each second, but Doctor Jack has not yet put forth 
his best efforts, though rapidly annihilating the 
space that separates them. 

Now he makes a spurt — encouraged by the pres- 
ence of Avis, whom he sees. Five feet only separate 
him from the platform, but the train is going at a 
lively rate. 

Another burst of speed; two feet remain. He 
puts out his hand ; a fall now must mean ruin to his 
hopes; but Jack is light on his feet. 

Kirke Smith stands on the steps. He holds on to 
the rail, bends forward and reaches out his horny 
hand, which Doctor Jack instantly seizes upon. 

Another second and the daring runner has swung 
himself upon the back platform of the last car. He 
has won. 

Avis throws her arms about her husband. 

“Oh, Jack!” she says, with a long breath. “I be- 
gan to fear you would lose the race. It was a ter- 
rible moment of suspense,” at which the doctor, 
though exceedingly short of breath just at the time, 
is compelled to laugh, as the ludicrous side of the 
matter appears before him. 

“How did you succeed? Were you followed?” asks 
the Texan, eagerly. 

“ Two shadowy figures kept after me up to the 
time when I gave them the slip, and made a bolt for 


210 


CHASING A rainbow: 


the train. They could not have gotten aboard— 
simply impossible — I ran as fast as I could, and had 
a narrow escape, as you have all seen.” 

“By Jove! look yondah!” exclaims Larry, at this 
juncture, and all turn their eyes backward over the 
road bed. 

They are now quite a distance from the station. 
Nearly an eighth of a mile, and making good time 
that momentarily grows faster. 

The track chances to be straight, so that they can 
readily see the well-lighted platform and all its im- 
mediate surroundings. 

Even as they look in response to Larry’s call, two 
figures come dashing upon the boards. They are 
men who thus run, men who have beyond a doubt 
been left by the train ; men who even run up the 
track some distance, as rattled travelers left behind 
are apt to do, in the vain hope of overhauling the 
train that has given them the slip. 

Of course, the distance is too great for our friends 
to make them out, but they are almost positive as to 
the identity of the men who have been dropped so 
neatly. 

Larry in particular is greatly tickled over the dis- 
comfiture of the enemy. He takes off his hat, and 
makes a bow in the direction of the stragglers. 

“ Farewell — farewell — the best of friends must 
part!” he says, dramatically, and, of course, the 
two figures, now growing shadowy in the dim dis- 
tance, answer not a word. 

Doctor Jack regains his breath after a little while. 
They are speeding along over the open prairie now, 
the town having been left behind, and as the night 
air is decidedly chilly, it is deemed proper that they 
seek for warmth and comfort inside the car. 


CHASING A BAINBOW,' 


211 


Jack has already told in a few sentences how he 
managed to outwit the two men who followed him 
so closely. It is not his habit to boast, and those 
who hear what he has to say must draw upon their 
own imaginations to fill in the story. 

Larry walks forward to indulge in a smoke, for 
the car has been turned around during the day, 
and the little compartment is no longer at the rear. 

A few minutes later they see him hastening to- 
ward them. His expression is really ludicrous. At 
the same time they can see that the dude has re- 
ceived a shock. 

He sinks into a seat opposite Doctor Jack and his 
wife, who have just arranged with the steward for 
a little supper, and have a table spread between 
them. 

“What is the matter, man? You look as if you 
had seen a ghost,” says Jack. 

“By Jove! two of them, dear boy,” gasps Larry, 
rolling his eyes. 

The doctor and Avis exchange glances. 

“Now, what in the duse can he mean? Come, 
Larry, out with it. What have you seen?” the 
former remarks. 

“ Tell me, can a man be in two places at the same 
time?” demands the dude. 

“Well, hardly. I’ve known people to try it, but 
the attempt generally ended in failure. Why do 
you ask that? Is it possible ” 

Larry jerks his thumb over his shoulder. 

“I found ’em snugly deposited in the smoking- 
room,” he says, laconically. 

“Them? Do you mean the Britisher and his Chil- 
ian ally?” 

Larry nods, unable to say a word. 


212 


CHASING A rainbow: 


Doctor Jack looks at his wife again, and laughs. 
He takes it very coolly, indeed ; one would think it 
might be a great joke with him. 

“ How can it be possible, when we saw those men 
lose the train?” Avis asks. 

“ Ah ! my dear, not one of us could declare their 
identity at that distance. As to the two men who 
followed me, I only saw them in the dark. It is 
evident that instead of entering the chase them- 
selves, these worthies, suspecting a trick perhaps, 
stuck by the train and sent the two Chilians who 
have come under their orders after me.” 

“Then it was all useless?” 

“Not so. We have reduced the number of our 
foes by two. That is something to feel good over. 
I believe Lord Eackett and Garcia are all we have 
to watch now, and by my next coup d'etat I hope 
to get rid of them.” 

“You have wesolved, then ” begins Larry, but 

his drawl is so labored that Jack, as is often the 
case, finishes the sentence for him. 

“ To have a special awaiting our arrival in Den- 
ver, on which we shall outstrip the regular train 
and leave our foes behind.” 

“Three cheers for Doctor Jack!” but the other’s 
frown causes Larry to restrain his enthusiasm. 


DIAMOND CUT DIAMOND, 


213 


CHAPTER XXIX. 

DIAMOND CUT DIAMOND. 

Presently the Englishman is seen to look through 
the car. Larry declares that he seems greatly sur- 
prised when his eyes fall upon Doctor Jack, but he 
returns again to the seclusion of the smoking apart- 
ment, where doubtless various schemes are being 
brought forward between the colonel and himself, 
having for their object the detention of the Ameri- 
can, perhaps even his death. 

Having talked the matter over with the others as 
they pass the time over the little table, Jack proceeds 
to make out a message which he desires to send 
ahead, and which will give him a tight squeeze on 
the game. 

Then he waits for the conductor, with whom he 
has a long talk in the seclusion of the state-room. 
Sworn to secrecy concerning the facts, this official 
folds the message up with some bank bills Jack 
hands over, and then the affair is as good as ar- 
ranged. 

Jack can lie on his oars. 

All that is necessary is to watch the enemy and 
circumvent any move looking to a sly attack from 
the rear. 

When Denver is reached by this trans-continen- 
tal train, there will be a surprise in store for some 
people, no doubt. 

The schemes of the two allies may embrace a 
variety of forms, since one wants the secret packet 


214 


DIAMO:SD CUT DIAMOm. 


that seems of such immense value to Doctor Jack, 
while the other covets his wife. 

By this time, however, the bull-dog nature of the 
British nobleman has been fully aroused. He hates 
Jack with intense fervor. Every victory of the 
American stirs up the slusrgish bad blood in his 
veins, until he is now in a condition bordering on 
frenzy, though outwardly cool, and could see the 
man against whom his anger is kindled burned at 
the stake with pleasure. 

When two such unscrupulous plotters strain their 
energies in the endeavor to hatch up mischief, the 
chances are they will arouse something of a com- 
motion. 

An hour later the sleeper drops off from the train 
which goes on and leaves it on the open prairie. 
Luckily the accident is discovered by the conductor 
a few minutes later. He happens to look out of a 
window and sees lights a mile or so in the rear, 
where no illumination could be expected, pokes his 
head out still farther, counts the cars, and finds 
his train one short of the number with which it 
started. 

So he pulls the cord, stops the train, and they 
back down the track to secure the lost sleeper. Al- 
ready those on board have become aware of the sit- 
uation, and crowd the platform. An investigation 
shows that it has been no accident. Some, strong 
hand uncoupled the cars after detaching the bell- 
rope and accomplishing other things that are neces- 
sary on account of the vestibule. 

Ho one makes any accusation. True, Colonel 
Garcia was in the smoking compartment, but he 
was the first to give the alarm, and declares he 
saw a rough man, whom he took to be a trainman, 


DIAMOND CUT DIAMOm. 


215 


doing something outside the door, but paid little 
heed to the matter until the sleeper slowed up, 
when, looking along the track, he discovered they 
were left. 

Lord Rackett ventures the august opinion that 
this is the work of train robbers, who intended go- 
ing through the sleeper when the remainder of the 
east-bound train had passed from sight. 

Some of the passengers grasp this story eagerly. 
Strange how people want to be connected with some 
notoriety, especially when it does not cost anything 
and involves no danger. 

Doctor Jack and Larry exchange a glance, and 
even the dude’s smile is suggestive. Evidently they 
know just about how that car chanced to be left 
behind. The rough man was all in the mind of the 
indignant Garcia. 

Again they move forward. 

One of the colonel’s first acts is to wash his hands, 
which fact Larry reports with considerable em- 
phasis. 

The conductor is suspicious, and during the re- 
mainder of the night keeps a close watch upon the 
sleeper “Diana.” It will not redound to his credit to 
leave a car filled with first-class passengers stand- 
ing on the main track. 

It is a game of diamond cut diamond now, and as 
yet Jack seems to be holding his own, yes, and 
gaining ground continually. 

Another dawn and all well. So the day and night 
pass and Ogden is left far behind 

The train is on time. That golden lubricator apr 
pears to be doing its duty remarkably well. There 
is nothing like it to surmount difficulties when it 
comes to railroad travpl, 


216 


DIAMOND COT DIAMOND, 


“When do we reach Denver?” asks Larry, who 
begins to weary of this chase against time. 

“In a few hours,” returns the doctor, handing 
over the time-table, for they have left Cheyenne. 

They are whirled on their way. The great Rockies 
have been climbed, beyond v^hich lie the prairie 
lands of the corn-growing States. 

Their enemies seem very quiet, but it is at such 
times the most danger is to be looked for. Perhaps 
they have engaged in a little surprise of their own, 
which may be sprung upon the party of Doctor 
Jack at the moment when least expected. 

Denver opens before them. 

“Get in readiness, Avis, but show no more excite- 
ment than if we meant to stop here for a meal like 
the rest of the passengers,” and Jack snaps his 
valise shut. 

“How about our trunks?” she asks, woman like, 
thinking how terrible it might be to land in New 
York without her wardrobe. 

“They will follow — only a few hours later. We 
don’t dare take the risk of transferring them to 
the special. My dear girl, you surely know money 
will provide ” 

She puts a hand over his lips, which he immedi- 
ately kisses. 

“Say no more. Jack. I can get on if I never see 
my trunk again. You know best, dear.” 

“Denver — half an hour for dinner,” cries the 
brakeman, passing through the car. 

The train rolls into the depot, and stops. Around 
them is the wizard city of Colorado, where in a de- 
cade magnificent blocks of business houses and 
lovely palaces for merchant princes have sprung 
into existence. 


DIAMOND CUT DIAMOND. 


217 


They do not mean to lose any time, but having 
gathered what few packages they carry, are ready 
to leave the sleeper as soon as it comes to a stop. 

Larry leers at milord, who, standing in the aisle, 
looks after them with a peculiar expression on his 
face, and then makes a motion with his arm to Col- 
onel Garcia. 

ISTo doubt he is very much surprised at seeing 
them with their luggage— at least Larry takes this 
view of it— for a very brief space of time. 

They pass out. 

The conductor awaits their coming, for he desires 
to see them win, and at once says : 

‘‘Follow me. Doctor Jack. I will show you where 
your special lies.” 

“ Gentlemen, I am sorry to detain you, but truth 
to tell I have a document here that requires your 
presence at police headquarters,” says a tail man, 
opening his coat and showing a detective’s badge, 
while two blue-coated officers push into view. 

Larry’s jaw drops. Doctor Jack frowns, at once 
recognizing a bold move of the enemy. 

“Perhaps you have made a mistake,” he says, 
knowing full well, however, that this is not so. 

“You are Doctor Jack Evans, of New York?” 

“Yes.” 

“And these gentlemen, Lawrence Kennedy and 
Kirke Smith — the latter I knew of old in Texas?” 

“Quite right. Let us see your warrant.” 

All of them glance over the document, but Avis 
notices milord and the Chilian colonel hurry away, 
though she thinks little of it at the time, believing 
they are heading for the restaurant connected with 
the central station. 

“There’s no disputing the fact that you have au- 


218 


DIAMOND GUT DIAMOND. 


thority to take all of us or only one member of the 
party to headquarters,” says Jack, into whose mind 
a thought has flashed, by means of which he may 
bridge the difficulty. 

“Well?” drawls the officer, waiting. 

“We are in a great hurry. I have hired a special 
to take us to St. Louis ahead of the regular train. 
It means much to me to reach New York at a cer- 
tain hour. There are men on board this train who 
strain ever nerve to halt us — an English lord and a 
Chilian colonel. I was in the affair at Valparaiso 
when the sailors of the Baltimore were mobbed, 
and these men have followed me all the vray. You 
understand the situation, I am sure. Now,” and his 
hand meets that of the officer on the sly, transfer- 
ring a little roll of greenbacks, “so far as I can see, 
your document really only calls for the presence of 
one of our number at headquarters to explain this 
charge.” 

“Now that you mention it. Doctor Jack, I believe 
you are right,” returns the officer, as he glances 
again at the warrant. This time looking through 
different glasses. 

Jack gives Kirke a meaning look. Kirke, who 
has stood there eager to knock the whole trio of 
officers over, if need be, so anxious does he feel to 
be of assistance. 

“I will remain,” he says, quickly. 

“That settles it, then. Follow on the next train,” 
and each, in turn, shake hands with him. 

“The law is satisfied. Come, Kirke,” remarks the 
astute detective, locking his arm with that of his 
old friend. “Good-by, Doctor Jack — I’ve heard of 
you before — and good luck follow you.” 

Jack waits no longer. Already five minutes have 


DIAMOND GUT DIAMOND, 


219 


been wasted by this episode, and that is a consider- 
able period of time when one travels at the rate of 
sixty miles an hour. He picks up his valise. 

“Come, Avis — Larry!” 

The conductor has waited. When the detective 
first appeared on the scene he was filled with con- 
siderable apprehension regarding the outcome of 
the affair, but now his face fairly beams with satis- 
faction at witnessing the neat manner in which 
Doctor Jack has manipulated matters and baffled 
the intentions of his foes. 

They pass around several trains and come upon 
the special — an engine and Pullman sleeper. Every- 
thing seems in readiness for an immediate start. 

It takes them just about a minute to enter the car 
— the conductors exchange a few sentences. Per- 
haps their old friend is giving the new man some 
hints that it may pay him to serve the party whose 
plethoric pocket-book pays the cost of the special. 

Now they move, leave the depot, and start down 
the track like a bird, with jangling bell and an oc- 
casional toot from the whistle. 

Larry and Jack shake hands. It does look as 
though they have the best of the bargain at last. 

“ Hope our fwiends, the enemy, will enjoy their 
dinner. If they knew the twuth I wather think it 
would choke them. Gweat thing, the telegraph- 
wonderful what pwogress railroads make — think of 
us flying across the continent in five days. Give 
me Yankee ways every day. I wather guess Den- 
ver agwees with milord. He may take a notion to 
settle down there,” laughs Larry, but that is where 
he counts without his host. 


220 


HARD TO SHAKE OFF. 


CHAPTER XXX. 

HARD TO SHAKE OFF. 

Apparently all is plain sailing now, and the world 
looks very bright ahead. When we have won a 
well-deserved victory, a sense of satisfaction steals 
over one that gives a very comfortable feeling. 

As before, our friends have the car to themselves, 
with a conductor and porter, the latter also serving 
in the capacity of steward, for luncheons may be 
obtained from a fairly well-stocked buffet. 

This feeling of security and exultation lasts just 
one hour with Larry. Then his dream of fancied 
triumph is rudely shattered, and he realizes that 
there are others who can plot and plan as well as 
themselves. 

They have just finished a lunch. Avis remains 
seated in another section, while the gentlemen re- 
pair to the smoking compartment. Larry will sta- 
tion himself at the open window, where the smoke 
of his cigarette may pass out and not destroy the 
flavor of his companion’s cigar. 

Jack has already settled himself, and Larry is 
about due. He waited to secure a package of his 
favorites from his overcoat. 

Presently in comes the dude — the other looks 
at him in surprise. Larry has, since their leaving 
Denver, assumed a very important and consequen- 
tial air, as though fortune has made him the bene- 
factor of the community— the fact that this pretty 


HABD TO SHAKE OFF. 


221 


scheme originated in his brain gives him something 
of a right to strut about and appear taller than he 
really is. 

Now, however, this look has suddenly faded. 
Larry’s glory seems to have departed. One could 
almost compare him to a dog that comes sneaking 
home with his tail between his legs. There is a woe- 
begone expression on his peculiar face. 

Jack jumps to conclusions. 

“Train hustles and swings pretty lively, but I 
didn’t know you were subject to sea-sickness, my 
boy,” says the man of iron nerve. 

Larry gives him a reproachful look. 

“Jack, dear boy, it’s something else,” he says. 

“Let’s see if I can guess it, then. D’ye know, 
Larry, you looked just that way when the black- 
e3^ed Susan in Alexandria gave you the mitten. 
Now, if we were settled in a city, I’d be inclined to 
think ” 

Larry grins now. 

“No woman in the case, I assure you. Jack. The 
Chilian beauty was left in Fwisco, you know.” 

“Then, what the duse? You couldn’t have re- 
ceived a telegram of any kind?” 

A shake of the head in the negative. 

“Dinner doesn’t agree with you?” 

“Jove ! it was superb !” 

“Ah! now I have it, my boy. You have made a 
terrible discovery.” Larry nods eagerly. “You have 
been too fast, too impulsive, and consequently run 
out of ciagrettes. Have a weed?” 

Larry holds up a package of the articles that are 
to his mind a thing of beauty and a joy forever, at 
which Doctor Jack shrugs his shoulders. 

“Then I give it up, Larry.” 


222 


HARD TO SHAKE OFF. 


That means he would like to be enlightened as to 
the cause of the dude’s conduct. 

‘‘Look, my dear boy, have you ever seen this 
article before?” 

He holds up a hat — a peculiar hat, with something 
of the military look about it — a hat which once seen 
could never be forgotten. 

Doctor Jack opens his eyes wider than their habit. 
He takes the hat in his hand and examines it care- 
fully. 

“As sure as I live I remember seeing that hat 
upon the head of Colonel Garcia, the Chilian. Yes; 
here is his name on the lining inside. Now, how 
under the sun could you have worn that hat here 
and I never noticed it?” 

Larry claps it on his head. The chapeau comes 
down to his ears, and Jack laughs. 

“I’d look widiculous, wouldn’t I now, with such a 
head-piece on? Not quite such a fool, dear boy, if I 
do look it.” 

“But why did you bring it here?” 

“Excuse me. Jack, I deny the soft insinuation ; 
I’m not in the hat business just at pwesent.” 

“Eh? then who brought it herei^” sitting up, with 
something of sudden interest. 

“That’s what I want to know, by Jove!” 

“Where did you get it?” 

“Found it on a seat in the car, or wather hanging 
on a hook.” 

Doctor Jack turns his eyes from the military 
chapeau until they meet Larry’s gaze. 

He does not seem disturbed in the least. It is not 
his way to show his feelings, and yet the truth that 
surges through his brain is of a character that 
might alarm any one. 


HARD TO SHAKE OFF. 


223 


“I remember now,” he says, slowly, ^^that when 
those men passed us Colonel Garcia certainly wore 
his hat, for he ironically bowed to Avis. Your find- 
ing it here proves one thing — those men were not 
heading for the restaurant.” 

Larry nods his head wisely. 

“That is so,” he says. 

“They got wind of our plans— knew we had a 
special here — feared lest their own plans might 
miscarry, and came here to take advantage of our 
forethought. Perhaps they sighted us coming 
through the depot, and beat such a hasty retreat 
that our colonel forgot his head-gear.” 

Again Larry wags his head as though he agrees 
with his companion. 

“ The question that arises now is one of great im- 
portance to us. Did those men in their hasty re- 
treat give up their captured position here, or are 
they still secreted about the car?” 

It is, indeed, a serious thing to decide. 

“A queer twick to play on us. Wonder how they 
bwibed the conductor and porter?” ventures Larry, 
half to himself. 

Doctor Jack sneers as he puts his hand in his 
pocket, takes out a handful of coins and jingles 
them together. 

“That music will accomplish wonderful things, 
my boy, astonishing things. Most men have their 
price. You have only to find out the size of their 
figure. Remember, I don’t say all men, but there is 
more humbug about this world than appears on the 
surface. I must say I don’t exactly fancy the looks 
of those who have charge of our car.” 

“My mind. Jack. The darky is ugly, and the con- 
ductor, well, I’ve seen better men in his line.” 


224 


HABD TO SHAKE OFF. 


“ Where could they hide ?” 

“You know there’s a state-room at the other end 
of the car.” 

“Is the door shut?” 

“Yes, and locked, for I twied to open it when I 
went that way, meaning to smoke there.” 

“That settles it. When you see the porter ask 
him to open it. That the lady would, perhaps, like 
to use it as a boudoir. We hire the car, and must 
be entitled to the whole of it.” 

“There he passes now. ITl twy.” 

Larry swoops out, with a cigarette between his 
teeth, and pounces upon the porter, who has just 
entered his little cubby hole, which might be dub- 
bed both pantry and kitchen. 

Presently he returns, with a look of fierce import 
on his face. There is thunder on “that brow.” 
Surely a storm hovers in the distance. 

“It’s settled at last!” he says. 

“In what way?” 

“Porter is vewy sorry — key to the state-room is 
lost, and he has no means of opening the door.” 

“The black rascal. It would serve him right, if 
we tossed him from the car.” 

At this Larry presses a hand on his abdomen. 

“Pway don’t. Jack, dear boy. I admit he is a 
twaitor, but think of the lunch he gave us. We 
have a good many hours to spend in this car — re- 
fwain, I beg of you. If there is any tossing over- 
board, let it be those chaps in the ladies’ boudoir, 
those uninvited guests who share the benefits of our 
special twain.” 

“Larry, you’re right. Let the darky go. We must 
make sure of our game, and then lay a plan to dis- 
lodge them.” 


HARD TO SHAKE OFF, 


225 


So, while they sit and smoke they talk over many 
little schemes, all of which have for an object the 
confusion of the enemy. 

Now and then one of them takes a glance into 
the car, to see that Avis is comfortable. She seems 
to be reading a novel and at peace, never dreaming 
that those who have given them so much trouble 
are in the same car as herself, and, perhaps, even 
then watching her back of the drawn curtains 
screening the plate-glass windows between the car 
and the state-room. 

When Jack later on communicates the startling 
intelligence to her, she is visibly disturbed. The 
presence of her husband reassures her. He has rid- 
den over all difficulties thus far, and they are half- 
way across the continent, so it is fair to presume 
that he will be able to keep up the good work. Her 
confidence in Jack is sublime, and he is compelled 
to put forth the best of his powers in order to merit 
such faith. 

Larry was not born a detective, but he can show 
some energy in this line when circumstances com- 
pel him to adopt it. 

Before a great while he joins Doctor Jack and 
his wife. What he has to tell convinces the doctor 
that their suspicions are correct. 

Larry declares he got a whiff of tobacco smoke at 
an open window just back of the state-room, which 
proves the latter place to have gentlemen occu- 
pants. 

Then, again, by placing his ear close to the parti- 
tion separating it from the ladies’ end of the car he 
believes he heard the mutter of voices, and even 
caught a Chilian oath, perhaps, uttered when Col- 
onel Garcia discovered the abominable blunder he 


226 


HARD TO SHAKE OFF, 


made in leaving his military hat somewhere in the 
car. By the way, Larry has hung it just where he 
found it, so as to allay suspicions. 

A while later he sees the porter take the hat, put 
it under his coat, and walk in the direction of the 
state-room, which fact proves conclusively that he 
has been in communication with the occupants. 

Larry pokes his head a little way out of the win- 
dow, and watches to see what happens. 

He sees enough to prove it all true,^ for the porter, 
leaning out, thrusts the military hat in at another 
opening connected with the locked state-room. 

There is no longer any doubt, and they can settle 
upon the course to be pursued. 

Jack is indignant. He has hired this train at 
heavy expense, and no one to whom he objects has 
any right to ride on it. 

So when he sees the conductor again, he follows 
him to the smoking compartment. 

“A few words with you, my friend,” he says. 

The man in blue uniform looks uneasy, but takes 
a seat as Jack motions. Already has the latter an- 
alyzed his features— the conductor is not exactly 
what Larry pictured him, although Jack does not 
wholly fancy him. 

“You understand that I charter this train — that 
my money pays for the services of every man con- 
nected with it?” says Jack. 

“Certainly, sir,” comes the ready reply. 

“ Ah ! then tell me why you dare to carry other 
passengers— parties who are intensely disagreeable 
to me— on this very car!” 


WRECKED NEAR FORT, 


227 


CHAPTER XXXI. 

WRECKED NEAR PORT. 

It would be difficult, indeed, to do justice to the 
expression that marks Doctor Jack's face when he 
makes this demand. Men more valiant than the 
Pullman conductor have felt it before, and cringed. 
He speaks in a low tone, but there is something in 
his voice, with the glance from his eyes, that em- 
phasizes the words. 

The man turns red in the face. He cannot look 
Jack in the eye for a minute. 

“lam positive you have been deceived by those 
men. To set you right, my friend, I am going to 
tell you something of the history of this chase across 
the continent.” 

He does so, and as he proceeds the official's face 
shows a change — eagerness marks it now — he has 
become decidedly interested. 

“And you are Doctor Jack. Well, I never ex- 
pected to meet you. We all know about your ad- 
ventures in Spain and Turkey. Yes, you are right, 
sir, I have been deceived. I could kick myself now 
for being such a dolt.” 

“Never mind. Tell me how it came about.” 

“ As simple as apple pie. When the eastern ex- 
press rolled in we waited for the party who had en- 
gaged the special. Up come two gentlemen ” 

“ One dark and with a military look ; the other 
plainly English?” interrupts Jack. 

“Yes. This English fellow tells me a cock-and- 


228 


WRECKED NEAR PORT. 


bull story, and like a fool I believe it. He says he is 
a detective from Scotland Yard, in England, follow- 
ing his man around the world ; that you have stolen 
a million and run away with a duchess. I agreed to 
conceal them on board, since he said he would pay 
for the special in case you failed to turn up. Under 
these circumstances I trust you will pardon my mis- 
take, Doctor Jack, and believe that I acted to the 
best of my judgment.” 

What can Jack do but forgive him. 

“Then you will act with me, now?” 

“With all my heart, sir.” 

“ The first thing to be done, then, is to get rid of 
these interlopers.” 

The conductor rises to his feet. 

“Stay, what would you do?” 

“Stop at the next station, and force them to 
alight.” 

The doctor ponders a little. 

He is disposed to be lenient, but the knowledge 
that these men are desperate in their endeavor to 
ruin him hardens his heart to a degree. 

“Wait a while. We will reach some larger town 
or city at nightfall. That will be time enough to 
make them walk the plank.” 

It is a fatal decision, and one he has cause to re- 
gret later on, but we are mortal and unable to see 
into the future. 

So it is decided, and the rest of the day slips away. 
They keep a constant watch upon the state-room, 
not knowing what tricks the inmates may attempt! 

So night again draws near. They are still some 
hours from the destination of the special. Their 
progress has been exceedingly rapid, as all regular 
trains must give way before them. 


WRECKED NEAR PORT, 


229 


Just as they finish their supper the train slows up, 
and they see many lights. Evidently in response to 
a signal from che conductor the special means to 
stop a few minutes, as he is subject to orders as 
well as the official of a regular train. 

Now comes the critical moment. 

Doctor Jack and Larry prepare themselves for 
action, if it should be necessary. 

Loud voices are heard in the private room, and 
our friends even catch the “ carajo'^ of the Chilian, 
who takes the new turn of affairs deeply to heart, 
and would kick against it, if he could. 

They leave the car, and the porter has both doors 
locked, so that it will be impossible for them to re- 
turn. So it really looks as though Doctor Jack and 
his party had shaken them off at last, even as Sin- 
bad did his tormentor. 

For hours they experience a relief, and look for- 
ward to final success. 

At St. Louis their special stops. Jack keeps track 
of the time, and it is the opinion of the conductor — 
who had redeemed himself in their eyes by his 
ejecting the intruders — that they will arrive just in 
good time to make connections with the regular 
east-bound express. 

This peculiar whirl across the continent is rather 
demoralizing to regular habits, especially when 
they are racing against time, and have such deter- 
mined foes at hand ; but they are Americans, and 
can put up with many things that would completely 
weary out some people. 

“Another change,” yawns Larry, as he picks up 
his satchel, for St. Louis has been reached. 

“ It will soon be over, my dear fellow. In thirty- 
six hours we ought to be in New York,” returns 


230 


WRECKED NEAR PORT. 


Jack, laughing— Jack, who never shows signs of 
weariness, no matter what the difficulties he has to 
battle with. 

“ That will only give us time. It’s hard to fight 
against the fates,” says Larry, and to look at him 
one would imagine he has the troubles of the uni- 
verse on his shoulders. 

Thus they again pass outside. 

The conductor meets them with a troubled face. 

‘‘Hello! What’s wrong, now? Has our train 
gone?” cries Jack, a little taken aback. 

“Ho, no, fully fifteen minutes yet. Doctor Jack; 
but you made a mistake.” 

“How so?” 

“ In not letting me put those men off at the little 
station in the afternoon.” 

“Eh? what’s this?” exclaims Larry. 

“They’re here, sir.” 

“Well, that’s odd. How do you account for it?” 

The Pullman conductor shakes his head. 

“ I am in the dark. I examined both platforms 
several times while we ran, and there were no signs 
of them.” 

“By Jove! wode in on top of the car. What a 
beastly wide to take,” remarks the little man. 

At this the employee smiles. 

“I hardly think that was the case, though it 
might be possible. There are other ways in which 
they could have come. For instance, they may 
have stolen a ride on the cow-catcher of the locomo- 
tive, or even entered the engine, deceiving the men 
just as they did me.” 

“That is a more plausible theory. How they 
reached St. Louis would probably form the base of 
an admirable story; but at present I am more 


WRECKED NEAR FORT. 


231 


concerned in considering how I shall gain New 
York. Will you show us the eastern train, con- 
ductor?” 

“With pleasure, Doctor Jack. This way, sir.” 

He acts as if anxious to please. Perhaps he de- 
sires to make them forget that he helped their en- 
emies part of the way on the road. The veteran 
traveler hardly knows what to think. It may be 
this man has played a double game, and after all 
remained faithful to the party who first “ saw” him 
with a fat bribe. 

It matters little — results are what Jack generally 
looks for rather than the means employed to reach 
them — and yet he feels considerable curiosity con- 
cerning the way in which milord and his Chilian 
ally came to town. 

It is the same old story over again. 

Their telegram has reserved a section, and as the 
hour is late Avis retires. Jack is unable to say 
whether his enemies are on board this car or notj as 
the curtains are all down. He is inclined to believe 
they are in another coach. 

Already they have started, and the agony begins 
again. When rival lines make up such speedy time- 
tables, their trains are seldom on hand, and no one 
knows this better than Doctor Jack. 

To annihilate the many miles separating them 
from their next change of base, they must keep up 
this steady speed, whirling the leagues behind 
them. 

Jack’s golden remedy is once more used as a lever 
to help things along. Though averse to the almost 
universal habit of tipping, he knows the weakness 
of human nature, and how the best work can be ob- 
tained from a majority of public servants. 


232 


WRECKED NEAR PORT. 


Cincinnati is reached on time. That run all 
through has been a remarkable one. Here a trans* 
fer is made. The train from St. Louis has been an 
extra, carrying a large number of people to some 
gathering in New York, and there is a special lim- 
ited waiting in the Pennsylvania to take them to 
their destination. 

When they have left the smoky city on the yel- 
low Ohio, and speed up the Miami Valley, it is 
about one in the afternoon. 

Inquiry gives Doctor Jack some knowledge con- 
cerning their expected arrival at Gotham. If all 
goes well, they will make the run in twenty-one 
and a half hours. Given twenty-two, and they 
would reach Jersey City at ten. 

‘‘Remember,” says Avis, “we change time at 
Pittsburgh, and go one hour ahead.” 

“True,” says Jack, frowning, “that only leaves 
an hour to cross the river and reach the office in 
Wall street; but that is doubly enough. We will 
take a vehicle at the Courtlandt street exit, and 
have the Jehu hustle us along. I reckon weTl be 
there, Larry, my boy, if only no wreck occurs on 
the road.” 

“I shall pray we may be delivered from that,” de- 
clares Avis, solemnly. 

This is spoken at the time they sight the dome of 
the capitol at Columbus. A short stop here, and 
again they go plunging toward the region of the 
rising sun. 

Night approaches— the last night they expect to 
spend on the road, it has been a long and exciting 
race from Valparaiso to New York, and rendered 
more than ordinarily dangerous on account of the 
desperate tactics adopted by their rivals. Perhaps 


WRECKED NEAR PORT. 


233 


the victory will come at last, and be all the more 
pleasing because it has been earned. 

It is on to Pittsburgh now. The iron city ought 
to open before them by midnight, yes, even earlier, 
after which begins the climb over the great Alle- 
ghenies. Those who have traveled all over the 
wmrld, and just crossed the grand Eockies on a 
special, can see nothing of a forbidding nature in 
such a task. It is a mere everyday performance. 

Long before now Larry has discovered Lord 
Rackett and the doughty colonel in another car, 
with their heads together. Probably they are discus- 
sing desperate measures that may be used as a last 
resort, for their case is getting down to a fine point, 
since New York lies at the end of this jump, and it 
is only a question of a few hours ere they reach that 
place. 

Up the Alleghenies they pant with two engines, 
climbing over heights, passing through defiles, and 
at length reaching the summit. Then down the 
slope they rush with a whiz and a roar seventy 
miles an hour. An accident now would annihilate 
them all. The train is warned, a red light flashes in 
the cold gray of early morning— there is a bad 
wreck ahead. Desperate measures are taken to 
stop the special. The air-brakes, usually so faithful, 
slip, and with a crash they are into the pile of cars. 
Doctor Jack turns to shield his wife. The car seems 
to rise on end, totters, and then rolls down the em- 
bankment. 


234 


TEE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICA: 


CHAPTER XXXII. 

“THE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICA.” 

The scene that ensues beggars description. For- 
tunately this sleeper is the only car that leaves the 
road bed, else the calamity would have been much 
greater. A wreck at night time — who can ever for- 
get the scene — the fearful sounds, the blazing lights 
from burning freight cars, the hiss of escaping 
steam, and, above all, the terrible cries of men and 
women half -crazed with fright or wounds. 

Madness is apt to rule under such circumstances 
as these — even the coolest of men often join in the 
demoralization. 

Doctor Jack can remember endeavoring to throw 
his arms around Avis, who appears in the aisle just 
at the second they leave the track — he feels the car 
upheave like a horse rearing upon his hind legs — 
then it totters, and turns over. 

All is medley and confusion within. Fortunately 
the lights go out, so that the danger from fire is 
lessened. They seem to roll over once or twice, and 
then remain stationary, as though resting in a 
gully. 

If this accident had occurred at one of a thou- 
sand other points they have passed in the heart of 
the Alleghenies, it would have resulted in a fright- 
ful loss of life ; but like most other affairs that have 
happened at long intervals on this superb road, for- 
tune has been kind, and apparently selected the 
best spot for the trouble. 


“ THE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICA:' 


235 


Doctor Jack loses his mind. He is conscious of a 
fearful wrench and then comes a blank. 

It is only a few minutes that he lies thus, and 
then his senses return. Strangely enough the car in 
landing has fallen upon its bed, so they stand upon 
the floor. Such a Bedlam as has broken out around 
them — every one appears to be shrieking at once. 
Confusion reigns, for the furniture of the car has 
been piled up in every conceivable manner. 

A little light Alters through broken windows here 
and there. The burning freight cars serve one use- 
ful purpose, at least, for although dawn is close at 
hand it will be an hour at least before old Phoebus 
rears his glowing orb beyond the valley. 

The first thing that occurs to Jack is the thought 
of his wife. What physical pain he may suffer him- 
self is as nothing to the mental torture that sweeps 
over him when he fails to hear her voice in reply to 
his cries. 

He is like a tigress robbed of her whelps. A dozen 
sprained ankles or broken bones could not crush 
him now. He feels around him, for it is too dark to 
distinguish anything amid such utter confusion. 

At first, he discovers only the medley of things 
that have been rolled from the berths, but as his 
eager hands search all around they soon touch a 
flgure lying still and motionless. 

It is Avis. 

A terrible fear sweeps over him that she is dead. 
The grim monster comes so easily under such cir- 
cumstances that Jack has reason to be alarmed. 

No one knows what may follow. The fitful flashes 
of Are, seen through the windows, possibly indicate 
the beginning of a conflagration that may reduce 
the Pullman sleeper and all in it to ashes. 


236 


THE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICA.' 


Plainly, then, his first duty is to seek the open air 
as speedily as possible. He knows it is improbable 
that he can gain either door through such a mass of 
debris. Men are scrambling all around him, bellow- 
ing lustily either with pain or fright. 

Doctor Jack turns to the window of his section. 
It has become jammed, though neither of the two 
panes of the double window appear to be broken. 

One kick from his uninjured foot sends the glass 
fiying. He follows it with several more to remove 
the smaller pieces. Then making a hurried investi- 
gation, he starts upon the task of getting himself 
and Avis through. 

The first part of this job is easily performed in 
spite of the pain that comes from his limb, but it is 
much more difficult to rescue his wife. Once again 
Doctor Jack has cause to thank Heaven for the 
wonderful power of his arms, which enable him to 
accomplish so much. He exerts himself as though 
he has the strength of a dozen men, and presently 
carries the still form of the woman he loves to a 
smooth place. 

Tenderly he lays her down, and with a fierce 
eagerness bends over to chafe her hands, her face — 
to call her name, as though the sound of his voice 
might arouse her from this stupor which he prays 
may not be death. 

Other figures have already appeared from the 
wrecked car. Some spring up the bank, others 
crawl painfully, while a few men remain to assist 
the unfortunates still within. 

Doctor Jack notices them not. Just at present he 
has eyes and ears for only one person, and she lies 
there before him so deathly still, that his very heart 
is for once almost frozen with horror. 


“ THE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICAN 237 

The sound of running water strikes his ear. It is 
singular how he hears it with such a racket going 
on around. A stream that presently empties into 
the Susquehanna is near by. He leaves Avis for 
one minute, and with great bounds and acute pain 
reaches the edge of the water. What to carry it in 
is the next question, but necessity is always the 
mother of invention. He wears a traveling cap, 
and it has remained on his head through all this 
commotion. Snatching it off he fills it with water 
from the stream, then turns and hobbles back to 
where he left Avis, suppressing his groans, for his 
twisted limb pains frightfully. 

He reaches the spot, to find it deserted. Surely 
here was where he laid her, and yet he may be mis- 
taken. Filled with new fears, he turns this way 
and that. Others lie upon the ground, groaning 
with pain, but who could have taken Avis. 

In that moment of horror it flashes upon him that 
Lord Rackett was in another car. Could the Eng- 
lishman be base enough to carry her off under such 
circumstances? 

He is still raging around, almost out of his mind, 
with pain and mental agony, when a hand clutches 
his arm. Turning, he looks into the face of the man 
he has hated. 

‘‘Doctor Jack, come with me. I found your wife 
senseless on the hill -side, where, perhaps, you laid 
her, and I carried her to one of the cars above. 
This is no time for us to be at each other’s throats. 
I have hated you, man, but when her life is in dan- 
ger, even that is forgotten. Come ! What ! you are 
badly hurt. Take my arm, Evans. ” 

A singular sight truly, to see this British lion 
helping the man he has fought up the hill, yes, as 


238 


THE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICA. 


tenderly as though it might ha\e been his brother. 
At any rate, it proves Lord Rackett to have some 
good in him beneath the reckless exterior, and this 
calamity with its attendant horrors has stirred the 
fountain to its depths. 

When they reach Avis they find her sitting up 
and looking around in a dazed wa}^. A lady traveler, 
having a bottle of strong smelling-salts, has been 
able to bring her to. 

Jack forgets all else in his delight at seeing her 
alive and uninjured. He closes his arms around 
her, starts to speak, gives a groan, and almost 
swoons again from the intense pain. 

His wife in this emererency becomes her old brave 
self again. 

“Where are you hurt. Jack?” she exclaims. 

He manages to point to his left ankle, which is 
very much swollen, so that he will not be able to 
set that foot on the ground again for a week or two^ 
smiles bravely and begins to say it is not much ; but 
Avis sees what a grave sprain he has received, un- 
laces his shoe, which he had on at the time of the 
accident, and sends Lord Rackett scurrying for 
water in a bucket which the porter brings to view. 

“By Jove!” says a familiar voice. 

It is Larry. 

A remarkable sight the usually natty dude ap- 
pears. His raiment is torn, one eye blacked, and 
he seems to have become mixed up in the cook’s 
galley in some way, for a can of powdered sugar 
or fiour is sprinkled over his figure from head to 
foot. 

One arm hangs limp and motionless at his side, 
and Larry’s face has a look of pain upon it, quite 
foreign there. 


THE BRAVEST WIFE IN AMERICA.' 


239 


“ Thank Heaven you are alive. A beastly affair 
this, I declare. Are you badly hurt, Jack, dear 
boy?” rattles off the little man, punctuating his sen- 
tences with grimaces that proclaim his own acute 
suffering. 

“A sprained aakle, only — I was lucky,” sings out 
Doctor Jack, as though it is a mere bagatelle. 

“ That's bad. I can see from the looks that you 
will not get to New York by noon.” 

Jack starts up and groans dismally. 

“ I must, if I move Heaven and earth to accom- 
plish it. My whole fortune is at stake. And yet — 
great powers, what pain shoots up my leg when I 
move. They might as well kill me on the move — I 
will get there!” 

“Let me go,” says Larry, faintly, and Avis, look- 
ing at him, sees how pale he is. 

She immediately makes him sit down. 

“Neither of you can go. If the packet I carry 
reaches Wall street by . noon to-day it is Doctor 
Jack's wife who will carry it.” 

Her lord and master attempts to expostulate, but 
she places a little hand over his mouth. 

“I am the captain, now. You have a severe 
sprain, poor Larry, a broken arm. You must re 
main and be taken care of, if there are doctors on 
the train, as 1 hope will be the case. Here comes 
the conductor. I believe he is looking for you.” 

It proves to be the truth. The conductor has taken 
the greatest interest in Doctor Jack. 

As he comes up, he says : 

“ There is a chance for one of you to reach Har- 
risburg; we are about to send the engine — which 
remained on the track — for assistance and doctors — 
it will start right away. Will you go, Doctor Jack?” 


2i0 


THE BBAVE8T WIFE IN AMERICA: 


He groans dismally— tries to rise, but is pushed 
back in the seat by gentle hands. 

“I will go, conductor.” 

“You, madam — on the engine ” 

“Certainly. I must reach Harrisburg in order 
to make connections for New York. I am ready to 
undertake it,” she says, bravely. 

He looks at her admiringly. 

“Ah! Doctor Jack, lean see the secret of some 
of your success at least. But time presses. I will be 
back in a minute to take you to the engine, madam.” 

Jack kisses her good-by. Sad though the parting 
is, how he blesses Heaven for giving him such a 
wife. 

“You have the packet safe, dear?” he asks. 

“Yes, yes; it is sewed in my dress.” 

“And the little revolver?” 

“ I still possess — do not fear — if steam will do its 
duty and fortune is kind, your Avis reaches Wall 
street by noon.” 

“And you know what to do?” 

“Everything, as you have spoken about it so often, 
Jack.” 

“ Then good-by, and Heaven guard you for the 
bravest wife in America.” 

“A beastly shame to think I have to sit here and 
nurse an awm while Avis goes on such an errand,” 
groans Larry, but she gives him an entrancing 
smile, and turning accompanies the conductor from 
the sleeper. 


FLIQHT OF THE WILD-CAT ENGINE 


241 


CHAPTER XXXIII. 

FLIGHT OF THE WILD-CAT ENGINE. 

Never in all his life did Doctor Jack witness the 
departure of his brave wife with stronger conflict- 
ing emotions than on the present occasion. Tempted 
to bid her remain, he is also aware that his future 
fortune depends upon her reaching New York by 
noon on November fourth. They have done well 
thus far, but all will be lost unless this matter is 
attended to. So he groans and hides his face, and 
when he looks again Avis has gone, only Larry 
remaining at his side. Larry, who endures the 
pain of his broken left arm with the grim heroism 
of a martyr. 

Meanwhile, since it is Avis who carries the pre- 
cious packet, it is eminently proper that we follow 
her in the brave endeavor she makes to mold cir- 
cumstances. 

The conductor leads her to where the engine 
awaits them. In the gray dawn the scene is most 
distressing, for the wreck presents an aspect of 
ruin, though in reality it is the freight that makes 
most of the debris, the cars of the lightning express 
being simply derailed, blocking all tracks. 

No one has been killed, so far as known, but many 
are injured. It is strange that an engine is clear of 
the wreck, but so it happens. This is the locomotive 
about to be sent to Harrisburg for assistance, run- 
ning about on the time of the express. 

The conductor speaks a few sentences to those on 


242 


FLIGHT OF THE WILV-CAT ENGINE. 


board the huge engine, and the hearty voice of the 
driver is heard. 

“Make way here, boys, for Doctor Jack’s wife. 
It isn’t a pleasant ride for a lady, but since she 
must reach Harrisburg, we’ll take her there.” 

Thus the works of Jack Evans bear fruit. He is 
known to this engineer by reputation. What he 
has done abroad to win his wife has not been hid- 
den under a bushel. 

Avis is helped aboard, and given a seat beside the 
fireman, who has one arm in a rude sling, as though 
he received some damage in the wreck. 

They are off ! 

The great iron engine rushes down the track like 
a monster of life. To Avis it is a new and decidedly 
novel sensation. Under other cicrumstances she 
might experience something of alarm, but now as 
they seem to fairly leap forward through space, the 
only feeling she has is one of exultation at the 
thought of annihilating distance. Every mile which 
they leave behind brings her so much closer to Hew 
York. 

She sits there, holding on firmly, for the engine 
jumps and rocks until it seems to be almost on the 
point of turning over. That wild ride Avis Evans 
will never forget so long as she lives. 

Behind her she has left suffering and misery. In 
front lies her mission, a sacred duty that she has 
vowed to perform. The thought of her husband and 
all that success or failure means to him buoys her 
heart up. Were the dangers of her venturesome 
journey twice as numerous, yet would she proceed. 

As the morning draws on apace and darkness 
disappears she can see the wide Susquehanna on 
her left. The air is frosty, and yet in the engine 


FLIGHT OF THE WILD^CAT ENGINE 243 

cab, with the windows closed, it is very com- 
fortable. 

Avis looks around. Up to this time she has been 
wholly engrossed with her thoughts, while her gaze 
has been fastened outside. 

She discovers that she is not the only passenger 
who goes to Harrisburg by special engine. Several 
men are aboard, and her eyes fall upon one after 
another with a somewhat uneasy feeling. 

The first face she sees is the red one of Lord 
Rackett, who bows and smiles, yet does not come to 
speak to her. 

Beside him is Colonel Garcia, the agent of the 
syndicate, against whom Doctor Jack has pitted 
himself. Two others are present, and Avis con- 
ceives a suspicion that, judging from their black 
looks and general apearance, they are Chilians. 
This surprises her, because Jack has felt confident 
that all their enemies, save the Briton and the South 
American colonel, had been left far behind in the 
mad race against time. 

The more she watches these men the stronger be- 
comes her belief that there has been some miscalcu- 
lation made. She sees Garcia look at her closely, 
and speak to one of these men who, in turn, prob- 
ably communicates the intelligence to his com- 
panion. 

Doctor Jack^s wife is quick to recognize the grav- 
ity of the situation. She carries on her person docu- 
ments that it would be worth a million dollars to 
the syndicate these men represent, could they se- 
cure them. That is what Colonel Garcia, the un- 
scrupulous Chilian, has come thousands of miles to 
accomplish—that is why he is here. 

Four men against one frail woman. It looks as 


2U FLIGHT OF THE WILD-CAT ENGINE. 

though the packet might be in greater danger now 
than ever before. 

Doctor Jack’s wife carries on her person, how- 
ever, an antidote for this evil. She is armed, and 
her husband has taught her how to use a revolver 
in an emergency. With one hand she holds to the 
rail. The other is lost amid the folds of her dress. 

Thus they plunge on toward Harrisburg. Every 
mile left behind lessens the danger sne feels hover- 
ing over her. It seems to nerve the men who plot 
against her to desperation. 

Their progress is such that in less than an hour 
they will cross the long bridge spanning the Sus- 
quehanna, and enter the capital. Whatever is to be 
done must be accomplished speedily. 

Avis knows a crisis is near. She sees one of the 
Chilians move up until he is just behind the en- 
gineer. The second fellow is talking with the fire- 
man. Lord Rackett holds back as though he would 
have nothing to do with the matter, having washed 
his hands of it at the time of the wreck. Hence, it 
devolves upon Garcia to take the leading part. 

The warning whistle sounds very often as they 
sweep down the grade like a whirlwind. Men rush 
to the doors of cottages, nestled under the hill sides, 
to gaze in wonder at the remarkably swift passage 
of the wild-cat engine. They do not understand 
what it means, for, of course, no news of the wreck 
has as yet been sent along the line. 

When the Chilian colonel crosses to where Avis 
sits, she knows the time has come. He will demand 
the packet, and threaten violence in case it is re- 
fused. As he has apparently the power at hand to 
carry out his words, it looks as though triumph 
might at last come to his banner. 


FLIGHT OF THE WILD-GAT ENGINE. 245 

He counts without taking one thing into reckon- 
ing, and this the fact that the woman he intends to 
rob is Doctor Jack’s wife. Long association with 
that daring man has given Avis some of his spirit. 

Now Garcia is in front of her. Upon his face can 
be seen a mocking smile, and back of this the strong 
passions he strives to control. 

“ Senora, you see that fortune has placed you in 
my hands. I control this engine. You carry some- 
thing I have come from Valparaiso to secure. I 
must possess it. Avoid trouble, then, and hand it 
over to me. I will give you my word to leave you 
at once.” 

This is what he says, in what he imagines is a 
tone of authority. He may be accustomed to seeing 
his soldiers jump and tremble at his words, his 
frown, but now he deals with one who has long 
since set him down at his true value. 

Doctor Jack’s wife looks him squarely in the 
eyes, and then, strange to say, laughs. She has little 
fear of this fellow. 

“ I prefer to retain what belongs to me. Colonel 
Garcia. Your interest is no doubt to your credit, 
but I refuse to consider a request that savors of rob- 
bery.” 

He begins to realize that the victory may not be 
so easily won, since a stumbling-block has already 
arisen in his path. The frown on his face deepens. 
He actually looks fierce enough to scare a Turk. 

‘‘Senora, no trifling. I would not like to lay a 
hand on you, but that packet I must have at any 
price. It is worth much to me.” 

“And more to Doctor Jack. I gave him my word 
—I will keep it,” she replies. 

“See, I control this flying monster. At my word, 


246 FLIGHT OF THE WILD-CAT ENGINE. 

cospita. it stands still. You, too, are in my power. 
For the last time, lovely senora, will you hand me 
the packet?” 

“If I refuse?” 

“ Then, much as I regret it, I shall use force to 
take it from you. Doctor Jack taught you to be 
wise. He would not have you defy a man who can 
be a devil when aroused.” 

“He taught me how to use — this!” 

The Chilian colonel starts back as the hand of 
Doctor Jack’s wife suddenly swings a deadly toy 
under his very nose. His horrified eyes instantly 
discover that it is in a condition to go off at any 
second, and when a woman’s finger plays with the 
trigger there is no telling what accident may 
happen. 

“Hold, senora!” he exclaims, endeavoring to 
dodge, as though he fears lest he may be sent sud- 
denly upon a long journey. 

Another element enters the game at this point, and 
brings about a change. The engineer, leaving his 
throttle, has with one blow of his grimy fist sent 
the man back of him sprawling among the coal. He 
has heard the bold Garcia’s words about owning the 
engine, and now sets about proving him a false 
prophet. 

One step takes him to the side of the Chilian, 
whom he seizes and shakes as a terrier might a rat. 
The insulting manner of the colonel has aroused all 
the stalwart engineer’s anger. 

“ Talk to a lady like that, will you— I’ve got a 
wife as well as Doctor Jack, and I feel like you’d 
insulted her as well, you miserable dog.” 

More shakes follow, and Lord Rackett, who is 
seated on the tender, feebly claps his hands, and 


FLIGHT OF THE WILD-CAT ENGINE. 


247 


exclaims: ‘‘Bravo, bravo!” for something he has 
taken to steady his nerves appears to have gone to 
his head. 

“You are a Chilian officer, eh?” continues the 
engineer. “Well, I don’t wonder they had a revo- 
lution down there if many like you are to be found. 
There’s only one thing to be done with such vermin. 
Run this machine, do you? Order it stopped when 
you please, eh? Bah! good-by to you, colonel.” 

The engineer gives the Chilian a whirl and a toss, 
and actually throws him out of the cab. Avis holds 
her breath until she sees Garcia alight with a tre- 
mendous splash in a large pool of water that, lying 
alongside the track, has caught the driver’s eye. 

Looking back as they go whirling down the steel 
rails, they are able to see the wretched colonel 
scramble to his feet and stand waist deep in the 
duck pond. Then a sudden bend shuts out the view. 
The engineer’s hand is on the throttle, and a long 
whistle for the bridge pierces the morning air. 


248 


BOW THE LONG RACE WAS WON, 


CHAPTER XXXIV. 

HOW THE LONG RACE WAS WON. 

Across the great bridge they roll, then the pace 
quickens again until finally Harrisburg is reached. 
Avis is in suspense, not knowing what fate awaits 
her. 

She thanks the engineer for his friendly assist- 
ance. People stare to see a lady leave the locomo- 
tive ; but she has no time to notice these things 
now. 

Her eyes seek an official, and toward him she 
hastens. 

Inquiry develops the fact that the next train 
leaves for Philadelphia and New York in half an 
hour. She regrets the delay, but at least it gives 
her time for an early breakfast. 

Avis consults her watch frequently. She has set 
it an hour ahead, knowing that the time changed at 
Pittsburgh. There is time to reach New York, but 
nothing to spare. 

When the train hauls out she breathes a sigh of 
relief. To be moving means a great deal. 

On another track she sees the wrecking train 
hurrying off to the scene of disaster. It takes her 
thoughts to Jack. How he must be suffering both 
mentally and physically during these hours, roundly 
abusing the cruel fate that prevents him from fin- 
ishing the good work. 

Avis smiles. He has a trusty messenger, she be- 
lieves, and if the train will only reach its destina- 


HOW THE LONG BACE WAS WON. 


249 


tion at Jersey City on time, Doctor Jack’s wife will 
do the rest. 

She has a time-table, and consults it whenever 
they arrive at a station. Who has more interest in 
the journey than this brave little woman, coming 
thousands of miles by sea and land, encountering 
and conquering dangers at the side of her hus- 
band, in order to be in New York at a certain 
hour? 

It is a long, weary ride— one always feels the 
final portion of a journey the most. 

Philadelphia at last. Thank Heaven, and very 
close to time. 

Two hours and a half ought to see her in New 
York. For Jack’s sake more than her own she is 
glad. He will be so proud of her. 

Why do they not start again — precious minutes 
are being lost. Each pulsation of the heart fur the 
next few hours may mean dollars — a million is the 
stake played for. 

When Avis, more nervous than ever before in all 
her life, is reaching a point when the situation be- 
comes almost unbearable, she sees the conductor, 
whom she has watched with feverish eagerness, 
wave his arms. Thank Heaven ! they are about to 
start. 

At a snail’s pace, it seems to her, they creep out 
of Philadelphia. Once the City of Brotherly Love 
is left behind their pace is more rapid, and at length 
the maximum is reached when trees and houses 
seem to fly past. 

Avis sits counting the minutes. At Trenton they 
have made up eight, and it begins to look as though, 
after all, they may yet get in on time. If the man 
at the throttle knew of her mission, and sympa- 


250 


HOW THE LONG RAGE WAS WON. 


thized with her, he could hardly have carried the 
train on more nobly. 

Every fiber of her being thrills with excitement 
as the long race against time draws near a close. 
It is like a well-balanced scale — a very small thing 
will send it up or down, but the result is freighted 
with enormous results to a few. 

If anything they increase their speed. The track 
is in elegant condition, and the man in the cab has 
the reputation for the best time made on an Ameri- 
can railway. Thus the fates work for the brave 
and the fair. 

Through New Brunswick they pass like a streak 
of light. It is about half-past ten. Then comes a 
stretch of country, after which Elizabeth shows up. 
Their speed is checked in crossing the Beading 
tracks, after which they race for Newark and pass 
through with no delay. 

Another burst of speed over the meadows, a rush 
through the cut, and presently they dash upon the 
elevated tracks into Jersey City. 

Avis is ready to leave the train as soon as it stops. 
The time is so short she feels her heart fiutter with 
deep anxiety. To lose even one boat may ruin 
all. 

This does not happen, and she presently finds her- 
self crossing the North Kiver. New York, her goal, 
lies there in the sunlight, which gilds its domes and 
spires. When she issues forth from the ferry-house 
it is just ten minutes to twelve. 

A hackman holds the door of his vehicle open. 

‘‘Carriage, madam?” 

A glance shows a stout animal and a driver who 
seems to possess determination. 

^‘T^n dollars if you reach WaU street before 


HOW THE LONG RACE WAS WON. 251 

noon,” says this energetic little woman, as she dis • 
appears within the vehicle. 

Slam goes the door shut. With one hound the 
energetic Jehu gains his seat, and whirls his horses 
around. Ten dollars ! the fee is worth striving for. 

“Make way — case of life and death!” he bawls, 
plying his whip. 

Once over West street to Courtlandt he has over- 
come the heaviest difficulty. Still he urges his 
horses on at a gallop. Obstacles appear, but a vet- 
eran hackman is an adept at avoiding them. Now, 
they are in Liberty street, and nearing its junction 
with Broadway. Avis looks out. A jam would ruin 
her hopes, but such a thing seldom occurs so far 
down, the congestion of wagons being from the 
Post Office, north. 

Broadway at last. Avis breathes in relief, for her 
mission is a success. 

Just as they turn into Wall street the time-hall, 
on the Western Union building, drops. It is high 
noon, and bells and whistles proclaim the fact. 

In a certain office in Wall street a number of 
gentlemen have congregated. Their appearance 
would indicate men of business standing and 
wealth. Thousands like them can be met with any 
day in this section, where meetings are being held 
that involve the handling of millions. 

Most of them appear very anxious, and consult 
their watches frequently. 

At the first stroke of the bells announcing the 
mid-day hour, one of them rises and raps on a desk 
with his knuckles. 

“Gentlemen, it is time to take a vote. We will 
decide the destinies of our company. Is there any 
objection?” 


252 


HOW THE LONG RACE WAS WON. 


One man springs up. 

“I have had a telegram from Doctor Evans.” 

«Ah!” 

“ He is on the way from Chili with documents 
that give him the right to vote the shares of Judge 
Frazer, which, added to his own, makes a majority 
of the stock.” 

The other gentlemen smile. 

“Where is Doctor Jack Evans? Let him produce 
these documents, and we submit. But if he is not 
here, we must shape the future policy of the nitrate 
company we represent.” 

“He left Cincinnati at noon yesterday.” 

“On what road?” 

“The Pennsylvania.” 

The smile grows broader now. 

“ Ah ! fate was too much for him — that train was 
delayed by an accident in the mountains, so I learn 
from the bulletins. Gentlemen, we will go on with 
the voting. It is all in our hands, since Doctor Jack 
is not here.” 

The door has opened, even while he speaks, and a 
figure steps in. The figure of a woman, whose hand- 
some face glows with eagerness. 

“Madam,” says the chairman of the meeting, in 
haste, “you have mistaken the room; the next 
door leads to the divorce lawyer’s office.” 

She steps forward. 

“ Is this the stockholders’ meeting of the Rising 
Sun Nitrate Company, limited?” she asks, very dis- 
tinctly. 

“Yes.” 

The one member who had plead for delay jumps 
to his feet eagerly. 

“Is Jeremiah Green present?” 


HOW THE LONG RACE WAS WON. 


253 


‘‘I am that party,” he exclaims. 

The lady has something in her hand. 

“ I am requested to give this to you. My husband 
is unable to be here. I represent him.” 

“Madam,” says the chairman, now almost ready 
to collapse. “Madam, who are you?” 

She gives him a radiant smile. 

“I am Doctor Jack’s wife.” 

Jeremiah Green gives a half-suppressed cheer as 
he tears the cover from the packet, glances at the 
contents and waves them above his head. 

“These certificates are in Doctor Jack’s name. 
They have been bought outright, giving him a ma- 
jority of the stock. Gentlemen, your reign is over. 
Henceforth this company will be worked in the true 
interest of all holders. British holders must follow 
Yankee push, for Doctor Jack has won.” 

The defeated conspirators who have intended 
freezing the minority out, and ruining Doctor Jack, 
now admit that they are beaten, and beg for the best 
terms they can get. Avis, now that the crisis has 
passed, and success won, sinks into a chair quite 
wearied. 

The meeting is soon adjourned to await the pleas- 
ure of the man who now controls the company. 
Jeremiah Green sees Avis to the Astor House. The 
first thing she does is to send a message to Harris- 
burg, directed to the hotel where Jack meant to 
stop. It simply says in the language of old : 

“ Veni, vidi, vici — I came, I saw, I conquered.” 

Doctor Jack, seated in his room, with his limb 
bandaged, and not yet able to travel, receives this 
cheering message, and a tremendous load is at once 
lifted from his heart, for he knows Avis reached 
Wall street in time. 


254 


HOW THE LONG RACE WAS WOH. 


The next day he manages to travel to Gotham, 
and the Astor House, assisted by Larry, and it may 
be set down as certain that a warm welcome awaits 
the suffering heroes. 

Kirke Smith also turns up. 

The Chilians, Colonel Garcia and all, have van- 
ished from view after the complete failure of their 
plans. As for Lord Rackett, his recent experience 
has taught him that it is dangerous business trying 
to steal other men’s wives, especially foolish, since 
so many fair English girls would jump at the 
chance of securing him; so he shakes the dust of 
America from his feet, and sails for home. No one 
mourns his absence. 

Doctor Jack’s sprain grows better daily, and at 
length he calls a meeting of the company from 
which he has refused to be thrown, and which is 
now under his thumb. The British interests and 
those of Chilians must be henceforth guided by his 
wishes; but as he has his fortune invested they 
must either follow in his lead or buy him out. This 
latter occurs, for Doctor Jack is willing to sell at a 
profit, especially since at the time there seems dan- 
ger of war between the United States and the re- 
public of Chili. 

Larry, who has invested heavily, shares in the 
profits, which allow him another year of idleness on 
the Continent, so he starts for Italy as soon as his 
arm heals. Kirke Smith accompanies Doctor Jack 
and his wife to Egypt, a country he has long de- 
sired to visit, and they spend some months on an 
elegant dahabieh on the Nile until the approach of 
hot weather drives them to more congenial Paris. 

[the end.] 



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20 Miles the Shortest CINCINNATI TO LEXINGTON, Ky. 

6 Hours Quickest CINCINNATI to KNOXVILLE, Tenn. 

116 Miles the Shortest CINCINNATI to ATLANTA and AUGUSTA, Geu 
114 Miles the Shortest CINCINNATI to ANNISTON, Ala. 

26 Miles the Shortest CINCINNATI to BIRMINGHAM. Ala. 

6 Hours Quickest CINCINNATI to MOBILE, Ala. 

Direct connections at New Orleans and Shreveport 

For TEXAS, liSEXIGO, and CALIFORNIA. 

Trains leave CenQ’al Union Depot, Cincinnati, crossing the Famous High 
Bridge of Kentucky, and rounding the base of Lookout Mountain. 

Pullinan Boudoir Sleepers on all TBrongli Trains. 

Over One Million Acres of Land in Alabama, the future Great 
State of the South subject to pre-emption. 
Unsurpassed Climaxc. 

For Rates, Maps, etc., address 

C. C. HARVEY, D. G. EDWARDS, 

- General Manager, Gen. Pass. & Tkt. Agt 

Cincmnati, O. 



9 



R Wayne, Cincinnati, and Louisville Railrcad 

“ Natural Gas Route.’’ The Popular Shcrt Liite 

BETWEEN 

Peoria, Bloomington, Chicago, St. Louis, Springfield, Lafayette, 
Frankfort, Muncie, Portland, Lima, Findlay, Fostoria, 
Fremont, Sandusky, Indianapolis, Kokomo, Peru, 
Rochester, Plymouth, LaPorte, Michigan 
City, Ft. Wayne, Hartford, Biulfton, 
Conuorsville, and Cincinnati, making 
Direct Connections for all Points East, West, >iorth and South. 


THE ONLY LINE TRAVERSING 

The Great Natural Gas and Oil Fields 

Of Ohio and Indiana, giving the patrons of this Popular Route an 
opportunity to witness the grand sight from the train as they pass 
through. Great fields covered with tanks in which are stored millions 
of gallons of oil, Natural Gas wells shooting their flames high in the 
air, and the most beautiful cities, fairly alive with glass and all kinds 
of factories. 

We furnish our patrons with Elegant Reclining Chair Car Seats Fro-e 
on day trains, and L. E. & W. Palace Sleeping and Parlor Cars on night 
trains, at very reasonable rates. 

Direct connections to and from Cleveland, Buffalo, New York, Boston, 
Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburg, Washington, Kansas City, Denver, 
Omaha, Portland, San Francisco and all points in the United States 
and Canada. 

This is the popular route with the ladies, on account of its courteous 
and accommodating train officia/s, and with the commercial traveler 
and general public for its comforts, quick time and sure connections. 

For any furtlicr particulars call on or address any ticket agent* 

H. C. PARKER, CHAS. F. DALY, 

Traffic Manag'er, Geu’l Pass. & Tkt. Afft* 

INDiANAPOUS, IND. ^ ' 


THE 

Delaware 

AND 

Hudson 
Railroad. 

1 THE ONLY DIRECT ROUTE TO THE GREAT 

IDIRONDICI MDDIITAIIIS, 

Lake George, Lake Champlain, Ausable Chasm, the Adiron- 
dack Mountains, Saratoga, Round! Lake, Sharon 
Springs, Coopei*stown, Howe’s Cave, and the 
Celebrated Gravity RaiHoad between Carbon- 
dale and Honesdale, Pa., present the 
Greatest Combination of Health and Pleasure Resorts in America* 

^ THE DIRECT LINE TO THE SUPERB SUMMER HOTEIt ' 
OF THE NORTH, 

“THE HOTEL CHAMPLAIN,” 

(Three Miles South of Plattsburgh, on. Lake Champlain). 



The Shortest and Most Comfortable Route 
Between New York and Montreal. 

In Connection with the Erie Railway, the most Picturesque 
and Interesting Route between Chicago and Boston. 

The only through Pullman Line. 


Inclose Six Cents In Stamps for lUnstrated Guide to 

H. C. YOUNC, J. W. BURDICK, 

2d Vioe-Prealdezit. Oen’l Pass. A^rent, Albany, N. 




THE imEST ON EABTH 


TJEtK ONLY 

Pullman Perfected Safety 

nmu wi nnx 


WITH DINING CAB 


BETWEEH 


CINCimATI, 

INDIAMPOLIS, 

AND CHICAGO. 


THE PAVOBITE UlfE 

HCDflUTItoStLIlS, 

Keokuk* Sprixigfi.eld, 

fizid. JPeoria* 


THE ONLY DIRECT LlinS 

BETWEEN 

Cincinnati, Dayton, Findiay, 

Lima^ Toledo^ Detroit^ 

THE LAKE REGIONS and CANADA^ 


PULLMAN SLEEPERS ON NIGHT TRAINS. 


Parlor and Chair Cars on Day 
Points EnumeratodM 

M. D. WOODFORD, 

Freskleiit and General Alana^rer. 


Trains between Cincinnati and 
the Year Round. 

E. 0. McCORMICK, 

General Paesenser A^eniP 



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Jt7E pi^l/T^I^OSE 5E[^IE5 

C> V' 

WORLD’S BEST FICTION, 


1 Another Man’s Wife. By Bertha M. Clay . 50 

2 The Belle of the Season. By 3lr.s. Harriet 

Lewis 50 

3 Doctor Jack. By St. George Ratlihorne 50 

4 Kathleen Douglas. By Julia Truitt Bisliop. . 50 

5— Her Royal Lover. By Ary Lcilaw 50 

6— Jose. By Otto Iluppius 50 

7 His Word of Honor. By E. Werner 50 

8 A Parisian Romance. By Octave Feuillet 50 
9— A Woman’s Temptation. By Bertha M. Clay 50 

lO-Stella Rosevelt. By Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 50 

I I— Beyond Pardon. By Bertha M. Clay 50 

12 Lost A Pearle. By Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 50 

13 The Partners. By Alphonse Daudet 50 

14 Sardou’s Cleopatra. By Yictorien Sardou. 50 

15 The Lone Ranch. By Capt. Mayne Keid 50 

16 Put Asunder. By Bertha M. Clay 50 

17 A Social Meteor. By Clement R. MaiTey 50 

18 The Chouans. By Honore de Balzac 50 

19 Sealed Lips. By Leon de Tinseau 50 

20 Between Two Loves. By Bertha 3I. Clay 50 

21— Coralie’s Son. By Jlhert Belpit 50 

22 Martha, the Parson’s Daughter. By W. 

Heimhnrg 50 

23 Jack. By Alphonse Daudet 50 

24 The Master of Ettersberg. By E, W^erner.. 50 

25 Germinie Lacerteux. By E. & J. de Gouconrt 50 

26 Under a Shadow. By Bertha M. Clay 50 

27 The Price He Paid. By E. Werner 50 

28 The Earl’s Atonement. By Bertha M. Clay 50 

29 Sister Philomene. By E. and J. de Gouconrt . 50 

30 Repented at Leisure. By Bertha M. Clay . 50 


THE PRIMROSE SERIES combines the highest art of book- 
making with the best fiction that can be obtained. For sale by all 
Booksellers and Newsdealers; or sent, postpaid, on receipt of price, by 
STREET & SMITH, PUBLISHERS* 

P. O. BOX 2734. 25-31 ROSE Street, New York. 


We get so used to our faces, we do 
not know how u^ly we are — most of us. 

Color of hair we never become 
insensible to ; of eyes ; any peculiar 
feature. What we cannot mend we 
think of and grieve over. 

Strange to say, we tolerate faults of 
skin, which are'almost always directly 
within our control. We do not know 
how happier people pity us ! 

Look in the glass! .Can you see 
no use fora soap that purges the skin 
of pallor and pimples and oil, that 
softens and smooths it, brings out the 
rose and alabaster ? 

^ The secret of Pears’ Soap is that 
It has not so much as a millionth part 
of alkali in it. You may use it, no 
matter to what excess, you cannot 
roughen the skin with it. 

Health is always beautiful. Other 
beauty there is none. 






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